(i) What do you understand by the term ecosystem ? (ii) Write the structure of ecosystem. (iii) List out…

Question

(i) What do you understand by the term ecosystem ? (ii) Write the structure of ecosystem. (iii) List out different types of aquatic ecosystems existing in India. (iv) What are the threats to aquatic ecosystems and how can they be conserved ?

Ghissu Editorial · Accepted Answer

An ecosystem is a functional unit of biotic components (producers, consumers, decomposers) and abiotic factors, and India's aquatic ecosystems are freshwater, brackish and marine, including coral reefs. Facing pollution, habitat loss, overfishing and climate change, they are conserved through the NPCA, Wetlands Rules 2017, CRZ rules and mangrove restoration.

**Introduction**

Ecosystems are life-support systems integrating biotic and abiotic components, vital for India’s ecological security and sustainable Blue Economy⟦1⟧ growth. Aquatic ecosystems, in particular, sustain fisheries, regulate climate, and support millions dependent on water resources.

**Definition and Structure**

SKETCH: tree | Structure of Ecosystem
- Ecosystem
  - Biotic Components
    - Producers
    - Consumers
    - Decomposers
  - Abiotic Components
    - Physical factors (light, temperature)
    - Chemical factors (nutrients, water)
  - Environmental Gradient

1. **Ecosystem Defined**: A functional unit of interacting organisms and their physical environment, forming a dynamic complex.
2. **Components**: Biotic (producers, consumers, decomposers) and abiotic (light, temperature, nutrients) factors shape ecosystem dynamics.
3. **Environmental Gradient**: Variations in temperature, moisture, and light influence species distribution and ecosystem functioning.

**Aquatic Ecosystems in India**

1. **Types**: Freshwater (rivers like ==Krishna and Godavari==), marine (coastline including ==Visakhapatnam==), brackish water (mangroves in ==Godavari delta==), and coral reefs (Gulf of Mannar, Andaman Islands).
2. **Ecological Importance**: These ecosystems support biodiversity, livelihoods, and the Blue Economy, which contributes significantly to India’s GDP and employment.

**Threats and Conservation**

1. **Threats**: Pollution from industrial effluents and agricultural runoff, habitat loss due to encroachment, overfishing, and climate change disrupt aquatic ecosystems.
2. **Conservation Efforts**: National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Eco-systems (NPCA), Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules 2017, community roles via Biodiversity Management Committees⟦2⟧, mangrove restoration in ==Godavari-Krishna delta==, and Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) enforcement.
3. **Community Participation**: Involving local stakeholders through People’s Biodiversity Registers enhances sustainable management and monitoring.
4. **Challenges**: Resource limits, fragmented governance, and low public awareness hinder effective conservation.
5. **Positive Outcomes**: Increased mangrove cover and Ramsar site expansions demonstrate progress in ecosystem resilience and biodiversity protection.

**Conclusion**

India’s integrated policy approach, legal frameworks, and community engagement are key to sustaining aquatic ecosystems and ensuring long-term ecological security.

Model answer

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