Which of these is an abiotic factor of an aquarium ecosystem? A. Algae growing on glass B. Gravel on the bottom of the aquarium C. Plants growing from the gravel D. Fish swimming in the water
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is B. Gravel on the bottom of the aquarium.
Explanation:
In any ecosystem, abiotic factors refer to the non-living components that influence the living organisms within that ecosystem. These factors include elements such as water, air, light, temperature, and physical substances like rocks, minerals, and soil.
- A. Algae growing on glass: Algae are living organisms, so they are biotic factors, not abiotic.
- B. Gravel on the bottom of the aquarium: Gravel is a non-living, physical component of the aquarium. It provides a substrate for plants and microorganisms and is considered an abiotic factor.
- C. Plants growing from the gravel: Plants are living organisms, so they are biotic factors.
- D. Fish swimming in the water: Fish are living organisms, and like plants, they are part of the biotic factors of the ecosystem.
Thus, gravel is the only non-living component listed and is considered an abiotic factor. Abiotic factors like gravel, water temperature, and light conditions significantly impact the health and behavior of the organisms within the aquarium. For example, gravel serves as a habitat for certain microorganisms and influences the overall conditions of the water, but it itself does not undergo biological processes.
Understanding abiotic and biotic factors in an ecosystem is crucial for maintaining balance, especially in environments like aquariums where human intervention is necessary to mimic natural conditions.
