🔬general biology i review

Biotic

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

Biotic components are the living organisms that shape an ecosystem. They interact with each other and their abiotic environment to influence the structure and function of the ecological system.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Biotic factors include plants, animals, fungi, bacteria, and any other living things.
  2. Biotic interactions can be predatory, competitive, symbiotic, or parasitic.
  3. The presence and activities of biotic factors significantly impact nutrient cycles within ecosystems.
  4. Biotic factors depend on abiotic elements such as water, temperature, and sunlight for survival.
  5. The balance between different biotic components maintains ecosystem stability.

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