The fish living near a coral reef feed off of small organisms found in the reef's crevices. Some sea animals hide among the coral for protection against larger predators. Even though it is not living, the sand under the coral reef is also useful as it holds the coral reef in place. Identify the term given to these interacting organisms and the nonliving parts of their environment.

Answer 1

The term given to the interacting organisms and the nonliving parts of their environment is ecosystem. An ecosystem includes both biotic (living) components, such as the fish and other sea animals, and abiotic (nonliving) components, such as the sand and water, which together create a functional system.