Biology STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) Practice Test

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What is defined as a biotic factor in an ecosystem?

  1. Temperature

  2. Air currents

  3. Living organisms

  4. Water availability

The correct answer is: Living organisms

A biotic factor in an ecosystem refers to any living component that affects or interacts with the organisms within that ecosystem. This includes plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms. Living organisms play a crucial role in shaping their environment by competing for resources, preying on one another, forming symbiotic relationships, and contributing to nutrient cycling. In contrast, the other choices relate to abiotic factors, which are non-living elements that influence ecosystem dynamics. Temperature, air currents, and water availability are all vital components of an ecosystem, but they fall under the category of abiotic factors, as they are not alive and do not possess biological characteristics. Understanding the distinction between biotic and abiotic factors is essential for studying ecosystem interactions and overall environmental health.