How do biotic factors differ from abiotic factors in an ecosystem?

Biotic factors and abiotic factors are fundamental components of an ecosystem that play distinct roles in shaping the environment and living organisms within it.

Biotic factors refer to all the living components of an ecosystem, including plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms. They interact with one another and influence ecological relationships, such as predation, competition, and symbiosis. Abiotic factors, on the other hand, include the non-living parts of the environment. This encompasses elements such as sunlight, temperature, water, soil, and atmospheric gases. These abiotic conditions help determine the types of organisms that can thrive in a particular environment and how they survive and reproduce.

The correct statement emphasizes that abiotic factors are non-living components, which is crucial for understanding how ecosystems function. These factors impact the distribution and behavior of living organisms and are essential for growth and survival in various habitats. Without the right abiotic conditions, such as adequate water or suitable temperature, living organisms might not be able to thrive in a particular ecosystem.

Overall, recognizing the distinction between biotic and abiotic factors is key to studying ecological dynamics and interrelationships within ecosystems.