What differentiates biotic factors from abiotic factors?

Biotic factors consist of all the living components in an ecosystem, such as animals, plants, fungi, and microorganisms. These organisms interact with one another in various ways, such as through predation, competition, and symbiosis, contributing to the dynamics of the ecosystem. In contrast, abiotic factors are made up of the non-living physical and chemical elements that influence life within an ecosystem, including sunlight, temperature, water, soil, and minerals. Together, biotic and abiotic factors shape the environment and influence the structure and function of ecological communities.

Understanding this distinction is essential because it highlights the interdependent relationships between living organisms and their physical environment. The interactions between biotic and abiotic factors determine ecosystem productivity, stability, and resilience. The correct choice captures the essence of these differences, as it specifically identifies biotic factors as living components and abiotic factors as the non-living elements that underpin ecosystem dynamics.