How does the microcosm modeling approach differ from utilizing a holistic model for ecological research?

An ecosystem consists of all the organisms and the physical environment with which they interact. These biotic and abiotic components are linked together through nutrient cycles and energy flows. Energy enters the system through photosynthesis and is incorporated into plant tissue.

• In the microcosm model, biologists try to recreate the ecosystem under controlled laboratory conditions. Microcosms can be defined as artificial and simple ecosystems.
• Scientists simulate and predict the behavior of natural ecosystems under controlled conditions. Controlled conditions are created in the laboratory.
• Because the ecologist controls the conditions himself, the ecologist can control the variables and different species included in the study.
• Interestingly, a holistic ecosystem under controlled conditions attempts to quantify the system and interaction of living organisms within an ecosystem. The word holistic itself refers to a comprehensive approach.
• The food web is an example of a holistic ecosystem model. The most representative ecosystem is an ecosystem in its natural state.