Ecotone is an area that acts as a boundary between two ecosystems. For example an area of marshland between a river and the riverbank.

Here marshland act as ecotone

Ecotone:
An ecotone refers to the transitional zone between two distinct ecosystems, where the characteristics of both ecosystems blend and interact. It is a boundary region where different species and communities from adjacent ecosystems coexist and interact. Ecotones can be found in various natural landscapes, such as forests, grasslands, wetlands, and coastal areas.

Chapter -1- Biosphere And Working of Ecosystems:
This chapter focuses on the study of the biosphere, which is the zone of life on Earth. It explores the various components of the biosphere, including the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere. The chapter also delves into the concept of ecosystems and their functioning.

Environment and Disaster Management:
This chapter sheds light on the importance of environmental conservation and the management of disasters. It discusses the various factors that impact the environment, such as pollution, deforestation, and climate change. The chapter also emphasizes the need for disaster management strategies to mitigate the effects of natural and man-made disasters.

Explanation:
- Ecotone: An ecotone is a transitional zone between two distinct ecosystems. It is characterized by a mix of species and communities from both ecosystems, creating a unique and diverse environment.
- Transitional Zone: Ecotones act as transitional zones where the characteristics of adjacent ecosystems blend and interact. This blending of characteristics allows for a greater variety of species and interactions between different communities.
- Coexistence and Interaction: In ecotones, species from both ecosystems coexist and interact, leading to increased biodiversity and ecological dynamics. The interactions can include competition, predation, mutualism, and symbiosis.
- Examples: Some examples of ecotones include the boundary between a forest and a meadow, where species from both habitats can be found, or the interface between a river and a lake, where aquatic and terrestrial species interact.
- Importance: Ecotones play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and promoting biodiversity. They provide habitat and resources for a wide range of species, acting as corridors for migration and dispersal. They also serve as zones of adaptation and evolution, where new species and communities can arise.
- Ecotone Management: Understanding and managing ecotones is essential for conservation and ecosystem management. It involves preserving and restoring ecotones to maintain their ecological functions and protect the species and communities that depend on them.

Overall, the concept of ecotones is important in understanding the dynamic nature of ecosystems and the interconnectedness of different habitats. It highlights the need for conservation efforts and sustainable management practices to ensure the integrity and resilience of these transitional zones.