ecosystem
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ecosystem
A community of organisms of different species and their non-living environment (such as water, light, nutrients) that interact as a functional unit.
Der Regenwald ist ein komplexes und empfindliches Ökosystem.
The rainforest is a complex and sensitive ecosystem.
The word is made up of 'Öko-' and 'System'. 'Öko-' is an abbreviation of 'ökologisch' (ecological) and refers to the environment. An 'Ökosystem' (ecosystem) is therefore literally an 'ökologisches System' (ecological system).
Jede Veränderung kann das gesamte Ökosystem beeinflussen.
Every change can affect the entire ecosystem.
In its biological meaning, 'Ökosystem' (ecosystem) is often described with adjectives such as 'empfindlich' (sensitive), 'komplex' (complex), or 'intakt' (intact). Typical verbs are 'schützen' (to protect), 'erhalten' (to preserve), or 'zerstören' (to destroy).
Wir müssen unsere natürlichen Ökosysteme besser schützen.
We need to protect our natural ecosystems better.
You can recognize the figurative meaning from the context. When companies, software, technology, or business are being discussed, it usually means an interconnected system of products and services.
Viele Start-ups wollen Teil des digitalen Ökosystems werden.
Many start-ups want to become part of the digital ecosystem.
system
'das System' and 'das Ökosystem' both describe something made up of connected parts. 'System' is the more general word and can refer to technology, organizations, ideas, or methods. 'Ökosystem' is more specific: in nature, it means living organisms and their environment interacting together. In a figurative sense, it can also mean a closely interconnected environment, for example in business or technology. The words can be confused because an ecosystem is also a system. But not every system is an ecosystem. 'Ökosystem' only fits when dependencies and interactions are the main focus.
Der Wald ist ein empfindliches Ökosystem mit vielen Pflanzen und Tieren.
The forest is a sensitive ecosystem with many plants and animals.
Am Morgen prüfen die Eltern das System der Schule für neue Nachrichten.
In the morning, the parents check the school's system for new messages.