Which of the following factors can affect the survival and reproduction of species?

Temperature and soil composition are vital abiotic factors that play a significant role in determining the survival and reproduction of species. Temperature influences metabolic rates, growth, reproduction, and behavior in many organisms. For instance, many species have specific temperature ranges that are optimal for their development; temperatures that are too low or too high can be detrimental.

Soil composition, on the other hand, affects water retention, nutrient availability, and pH levels, which can influence plant growth significantly. Since plants form the foundation of most ecosystems by providing energy through photosynthesis, healthy soil composition is crucial for sustaining diverse life forms — animals rely on plants for food, habitat, and oxygen.

While the other factors listed do influence survival and reproduction, the focus on the abiotic nature of temperature and soil composition highlights their foundational role in shaping ecosystems and the life within them. The presence of human-made structures, for example, may alter habitats but is more a secondary effect of abiotic factors rather than a primary determinant. Similarly, predator populations and inter-competition are more about biotic interactions, which can be heavily influenced by the underlying abiotic conditions.