Question

Who first introduced the term "Ecosystem"?

• A. Alexander Von Humboldt
• B. Eugene Odum
• C. Rachel Carson
• D. Arthur G. Tansley

Answer 1

Answer:

D. Arthur G. Tansley

• Correct Answer: Option D (Arthur G. Tansley)

• The term "Ecosystem" was first introduced by Sir Arthur G. Tansley, a British botanist and ecologist, in 1935. In his paper published in the journal "Ecology," Tansley defined an ecosystem as a particular category of physical systems, consisting of organisms and inorganic components in a relatively stable equilibrium, open and of various sizes and kinds.

• While the other scientists made significant contributions to ecology:

• Alexander von Humboldt is known for his work on botanical geography and meteorology

• Eugene Odum is famous for his pioneering work on ecosystem ecology, but did not coin the term

• Rachel Carson is best known for her book "Silent Spring" which highlighted the environmental impacts of pesticides

• Tansley's introduction of the ecosystem concept was revolutionary as it provided a framework for understanding the interactions between living organisms and their physical environment as a functional unit, which has become a fundamental concept in ecology and environmental science.