Ecosystems have the ability to maintain their state of balance or equilibrium despite changes and disturbances. They regulate their species composition and functional processes to sustain stability over time. This self-regulating capacity of an ecosystem is called Homeostasis.

What does Homeostasis mean in Ecology?

• In ecology, homeostasis refers to the tendency of a biological system to resist drastic changes and maintain stability. It ensures that populations and interactions within an ecosystem remain within certain limits, despite fluctuations.

Example of Homeostasis: Pond Ecosystem

• If the population of zooplankton in a pond increases, they consume more phytoplankton (their food).
• As phytoplankton decrease, food becomes scarce for zooplankton.
• This causes the zooplankton population to decline due to starvation.
• With reduced grazing, phytoplankton population recovers, providing food again for zooplankton.
• Thus, populations of both adjust over time, maintaining a balance in the ecosystem.