Whats a biotic factor?

A biotic factor refers to the living components of an ecosystem that influence the environment and the interactions among organisms. This includes all the organisms within a habitat, such as plants, animals, fungi, bacteria, and other microorganisms. Biotic factors affect the distribution, abundance, and survival of organisms through various interactions, such as competition, predation, symbiosis, and parasitism.

For example:

• Predators: Influence prey populations and behaviors.
• Plants: Provide food and habitat for animals.
• Microorganisms: Decompose organic matter and recycle nutrients.

In essence, biotic factors are the living elements that shape the structure and function of ecosystems.