Lecture Notes: Biotic and Abiotic Factors

Introduction

• Objective: Understanding biotic and abiotic factors in ecosystems.
• Approach: Define each factor type and explore their roles within an ecosystem.

Biotic Factors

• Definition: Biotic factors are living components that affect other organisms or shape the ecosystem.
• Examples:
  • Predation: Interaction where one organism preys on another, affecting population dynamics.
  • Competition: For resources or habitat, influencing species survival.
  • Disease: Spread among organisms, impacting population health.
  • Food Availability: Influences nutrition and survival of organisms.

Abiotic Factors

• Definition: Abiotic factors are non-living components that impact the ecosystem.
• Examples:
  • Light Intensity: Affects photosynthesis rates and plant growth.
  • Temperature: Influences metabolic rates of organisms; higher temperatures can increase photosynthesis.
  • Carbon Dioxide Concentration: Impacts photosynthesis and plant growth.
  • Moisture Levels: Essential for hydration and biochemical processes.
  • Wind Intensity and Direction: Affects seed dispersal and temperature regulation.
  • Soil pH and Mineral Content: Influences plant health and microbial activity.

Application in Ecosystems

• Ecosystem Analysis: Evaluate biotic and abiotic factors and their interactions.
• Example:
  • Clownfish and Sea Anemone:
    • Biotic Factors:
      • Predation by larger fish or eels.
      • Competition for habitat (sea anemone).
      • Competition for food sources like plankton and algae.
      • Disease burden impacting health.
    • Abiotic Factors:
      • Water temperature changes (daily/seasonally).
      • Oxygen concentration in water.
      • Water acidity and salinity levels.
      • Light intensity and CO2 levels indirectly affect clownfish by altering the sea anemone's environment.

Conclusion

• Focus of Study: Identifying and understanding the influence of biotic and abiotic factors on ecosystems.
• Common Questions: Analyze how changes in these factors affect organism interactions and ecosystem dynamics.

• Note: This lecture provided a broad overview; further exploration in specific ecosystems is recommended for comprehensive understanding.