Which of the following is an example of an abiotic factor?

Which of the following is an example of an abiotic factor?

• A. Drought
• B. Insects
• C. Fungi
• D. Birds

Answer: (A)

Abiotic factors are the nonliving parts of an environment, such as weather and physical conditions, that influence how organisms live and interact. Drought fits this category because it describes a condition of low water availability in the environment rather than a living thing. Insects, fungi, and birds are living organisms, so they’re biotic factors. Drought can affect ecosystems by stressing plants, reducing photosynthesis, and altering species interactions, which is why it’s the best example of an abiotic factor.

Abiotic factors are the nonliving parts of an environment, such as weather and physical conditions, that influence how organisms live and interact. Drought fits this category because it describes a condition of low water availability in the environment rather than a living thing. Insects, fungi, and birds are living organisms, so they’re biotic factors. Drought can affect ecosystems by stressing plants, reducing photosynthesis, and altering species interactions, which is why it’s the best example of an abiotic factor.