Define the term "ecosystem."

An ecosystem is a functional and structural unit of nature comprising biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) components that interact with each other in a specific area. It includes all organisms (plants, animals, and microorganisms) and their physical environment (soil, water, air, sunlight, and minerals) within a defined space. These components are interdependent, forming a self-sustaining system where energy flows from the sun through producers (autotrophs) to consumers (heterotrophs) and decomposers, while nutrients cycle continuously. For example, a forest ecosystem includes trees, insects, birds, soil, water, and sunlight, all working together to maintain ecological balance.