What is the difference between biotic and abiotic factors?

The distinction between biotic and abiotic factors is foundational in understanding ecosystems and ecological interactions. Biotic factors encompass all living components of an environment, which include animals, plants, fungi, and microorganisms. These living organisms interact with one another, contributing to the dynamics of ecosystems and influencing various processes such as food webs, competition, and symbiosis.

On the other hand, abiotic factors refer to the non-living physical elements of an ecosystem. These factors include sunlight, water, air, temperature, and minerals, all of which shape the conditions in which living organisms exist. Abiotic factors significantly influence biological processes and the types of organisms that can thrive in a given environment.

The correct choice reflects this clear separation: it emphasizes that biotic factors are composed of living entities, while abiotic factors consist of non-living elements, making it easy to understand their roles within ecological contexts.