Biotic factor
Biotic factor
Biotic factor (pronunciation: /baɪˈɒtɪk 'fæktər/) refers to the living components of an ecosystem that affect and interact with organisms within that ecosystem. The term is derived from the Greek word "bios" meaning "life" and the Latin word "factor" meaning "doer or maker".
Definition
A biotic factor is any living component that affects another organism, including animals, plants, fungi, and bacteria. Biotic factors can be categorized as autotrophs, heterotrophs, and decomposers. They can influence the abundance and distribution of organisms in an ecosystem, and they can also affect the biotic potential of a species.
Types of Biotic Factors
Autotrophs
Autotrophs are organisms that can produce their own food from inorganic substances using light or chemical energy. They are also known as producers.
Heterotrophs
Heterotrophs are organisms that cannot produce their own food and must consume other organisms for energy. They are also known as consumers.
Decomposers
Decomposers are organisms that break down dead or decaying organisms, and in doing so, they carry out the natural process of decomposition.
Importance of Biotic Factors
Biotic factors are crucial for the survival and growth of organisms in an ecosystem. They provide food, shelter, and a breeding ground for various species. They also play a vital role in maintaining biodiversity and the health of ecosystems.
See Also
References
External Links
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Biotic factor
- Wikipedia's article - Biotic factor
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