# Explain why a woodland ecosystem is described as self-sustaining.

> Eduqas GCSE Biology — 1.6.1 Ecosystems · Explain · 4 marks

> A woodland contains producers, consumers, decomposers and abiotic factors such as soil, water and sunlight. Together, these components interact to keep the woodland functioning without human intervention.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Producers photosynthesise / use sunlight to produce organic molecules / food
2. Energy / matter is passed through the ecosystem via feeding relationships / food chains
3. Decomposers break down dead organic matter, returning nutrients / minerals to the soil
4. Nutrients are continuously recycled / reused by producers, so the ecosystem does not run out of materials

## Key terms

- [self-sustaining](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/self-sustaining)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas GCSE Biology](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-a-woodland-ecosystem-is-9d2e7647) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.