Which of the following describes biotic factors in an ecosystem?

The correct choice describes biotic factors in an ecosystem as living organisms and their interactions within that ecosystem. Biotic factors encompass all the living components that shape the environment and influence the ecological dynamics. This includes plants, animals, fungi, bacteria, and their interrelations, such as predator-prey relationships, competition for resources, and symbiotic connections.

Understanding biotic factors is essential as they play a crucial role in determining the health and sustainability of an ecosystem. For instance, the presence and abundance of specific species can greatly affect food webs, nutrient cycling, and overall biodiversity. By recognizing how these living components interact with each other and their non-living surroundings, one can better understand the complexity and balance of ecosystems.

In contrast, non-living elements that impact living organisms pertain to abiotic factors, which include aspects such as temperature, water availability, and soil types. Environmental conditions that remain unchanging do not accurately represent the dynamic nature of ecosystems where biotic interactions regularly influence and modify conditions. Lastly, while physical structures that provide habitat could relate to the ecosystem, they are not classified directly as biotic factors since they do not encompass the living aspects and interactions among organisms.