What term is used to describe the contribution of living or decomposed material in an ecosystem?

The term that describes the contribution of living or decomposed material in an ecosystem is "organic matter." Organic matter refers to the carbon-based materials produced by living organisms, including plants and animals, as well as their byproducts once they die and decompose. This matter is crucial for soil health and the overall functioning of ecosystems, as it enhances soil fertility, water retention, and microbial activity, facilitating the growth of various plant and animal species.

In contrast, hydrology relates to the distribution, movement, and properties of water in the environment, which, while essential, does not specifically address the contribution of biological materials like organic matter. Geosystem refers to the interaction of different Earth systems (like geological, biological, and the atmosphere) but does not focus on organic matter specifically. An ecological footprint measures the environmental impact of an individual or community in terms of land and water area required, again diverging from the focus on living or decomposed material in ecosystems. Thus, organic matter is distinctively linked to the biological aspects of ecosystems and their productivity.