An ecosystem is easily found between living things (biotic factors) in a region and the nonliving environment (abiotic factors) where they are located.

1. COMPONENTS OF THE ECOSYSTEM

A. Biotic Factors (Living Elements)

Producers (Plants, algae)

Consumers (Herbivores, carnivores, omnivores)

Decomposers (Fungi, plants)

B. Abiotic Factors (Inanimate Elements)

Light

Water

Soil

Air (Gases)

Climate

2. ECOSYSTEM TYPES

Terrestrial Ecosystems: Forests, meadows, deserts

Aquatic Ecosystems: Fresh water (lakes, rivers), salt water (oceans, seas)

3. MATTER CYCLES IN THE ECOSYSTEM

Carbon Cycle

Nitrogen Cycle

Water Cycle

These cycles ensure the continuity of the ecosystem.

4. ENERGY FLOW

Solar energy is the basic energy source of the ecosystem.

Producers perform photosynthesis, energy is transferred to the person through the food chain.

5. ECOSYSTEM BALANCE AND THREATS

Factors that Maintain Balance: Species diversity, natural cycles

Threats: Climate change, change, habitat loss, overfishing

6. WHAT CAN WE DO TO PROTECT THE ECOSYSTEM?

Recycling

Sustainable agricultural practices

Protecting natural habitats

Saving energy

An ecosystem is a place where living things and non-living things interact with each other.

 -Living things (called biotic) include:

• Plants

• Animals

• People

• Insects, bacteria, fungi

 -Non-living things (called abiotic) include:

• Sunlight

• Air

• Water

• Soil

• Temperature

 How They Work Together:

In an ecosystem:

• Plants use sunlight, water, and soil to grow.

• Animals eat plants or other animals to get energy.

• Decomposers (like worms or fungi) break down dead things and give nutrients back to the soil.

• The sun, rain, and air help all these processes happen!

Everything is connected. If one part is missing or damaged, the whole system can be affected.

 Example: A Pond Ecosystem

• Fish swim in the water and eat small insects.

• Frogs live on the edges and eat bugs.

• Plants grow in the water using sunlight.

• Rocks and mud provide shelter.
  They all need each other!

  How Can We Protect Ecosystems?

1. Plant More Trees
   Trees give us oxygen and homes for animals.

2.  Don’t Litter
   Keep nature clean by throwing trash in bins.

3.  Save Water
   Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth.

4.  Save Energy
   Turn off lights when not needed.

5. Recycle
   Use recycling bins for paper, plastic, and glass.

6.  Protect Animals and Plants
   Don’t hurt animals or pick too many flowers.

7.  Use Less Cars
   Walk or use a bike when possible to keep the air clean.

1. Forests

Forests cover about 36% of Albania’s territory and are divided into several types, such as deciduous, coniferous, and mixed forests. They are rich in various tree species like oak, beech, and pine and serve as habitats for numerous plant and animal species. The Rrajca forests and those around the Gashi River are part of UNESCO World Heritage for their outstanding natural value.

2. Wetlands and Aquatic Ecosystems

Albania has a rich network of wetlands, including the lagoons of Karavasta, Narta, Patoku, and Kune-Vain. These areas are important for biodiversity, especially for waterbirds like the Dalmatian pelican and flamingos. Lakes Shkodra, Ohrid, and Prespa are also crucial for biodiversity, providing habitats for many species of fish and birds.

3. Marine and Coastal Ecosystems

The Albanian coast is rich in marine and coastal ecosystems that include lagoons, sandy dunes, and coastal forests. These areas are vital for preserving biodiversity and provide services such as flood protection and erosion control. However, they are under pressure from urbanization and pollution.

🐾 Biodiversity and Its Importance

Ecosistems in ALBANIA

Albania is one of the most biodiverse countries in Europe, with around 3,200 plant species, 350 bird species, and 70 mammal species. This natural wealth results from its geographic location and the variety of its landscapes. Biodiversity is essential for ecosystem functioning, providing important services such as pollination, climate regulation, and supply of food and clean water.

These ecosystems in Albania face a number of challenges, including:

• Water and soil pollution: Waste dumping and pesticide use negatively affect water and soil quality.

• Deforestation: Clearing forests for agriculture and construction leads to the loss of natural habitats.

• Climate change: Rising temperatures and changes in rainfall patterns impact ecosystems and biodiversity.

• Urbanization and uncontrolled construction: The expansion of cities and building in protected areas threaten natural ecosystems.

  Several measures have been taken to protect and conserve ecosystems in Albania:

• Protected areas: Albania has established a network of protected zones, including national parks, nature reserves, and protected landscapes.

• Education and awareness: Organizations like INCA and EcoAlbania work to raise public awareness and educate local communities about the importance of environmental conservation.

• Sustainable projects: Implementing projects that promote the sustainable use of natural resources and economic development.