An ecosystem is a structural and functional unit of ecology. It is where living organisms interact and compete with each other and the surrounding environment. There are various types of functions and properties of an ecosystem. 

Functions Of An Ecosystem 

The functions of the ecosystem are 

1. The ecosystem regulates the essential ecological processes that support the life systems and render stability. 

2. It is also responsible for cycling the nutrients that exchange between the biotic and abiotic components. 

3. Ecosystem is also responsible for maintaining a balance among the various trophic levels. 

4. It is also responsible for cycling minerals through the biosphere. 

The functional units of an ecosystem that work together in an ecosystem are 

1. Productivity is the main unit of an ecosystem, it refers to the rate of biomass production. 

2. Energy flow is the sequential process through which energy flows from one trophic level to another. The energy is captured from the sun and it flows from the producers to consumers and then to the decomposers. 

3. Decomposition is a process of breakdown of dead organic material. The topsoil and bacteria are the major examples of decomposition. 

4. Nutrient cycling is an essential aspect of the ecosystem in which the nutrients are consumed and recycled back in various forms for utilization by various organisms. 

Properties Of An Ecosystem 

Ecosystem properties may be determined by the number of different species in a community. The properties of an ecosystem include the structures and processes of ecosystems and landscapes in its spatial and temporal variability like soil properties, biotic, material production, nutrient cycles, and biological diversity that form the basis for the existence of society and any services and aspects that are utilized by humanity. 

Ecosystem functions and properties help us to understand the ways of the environment, and how living organisms interact and compete with each other. The ecosystem works in a variety of cycles and processes, and as a result of these the energy is constantly flowing.

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