What are biotic factors in an ecosystem?

Biotic factors in an ecosystem refer to the living components that influence the structure and function of the environment. This includes all organisms, from plants and animals to fungi and microorganisms, that interact with each other and with their surroundings. These interactions can be in the form of competition, predation, symbiosis, and other relationships that are vital for the balance and health of the ecosystem.

Understanding biotic factors is essential when studying ecosystems because they play a significant role in nutrient cycling, energy flow, and community dynamics. For instance, plants (producers) provide food for herbivores (consumers), which in turn may be preyed upon by carnivores. This complex web of interactions illustrates the importance of living organisms in shaping the ecosystem.

In contrast, non-living elements like water and minerals are classified as abiotic factors, which, while crucial for sustaining life, do not encompass the interactions or the living organisms themselves. Focusing solely on specific groups like primary producers overlooks the full spectrum of biological interactions and diversity present in ecosystems.