Multiple Choice
Which ocean zone is characterized by the absence of photosynthesis due to a lack of sunlight?
48. Ecology
Marine Aquatic Biomes
Struggling with General Biology?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
Which of the following is a biotic factor in a marine ecosystem?
A
Salinity of seawater
B
Phytoplankton
C
Sunlight intensity
D
Water temperature
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the difference between biotic and abiotic factors: Biotic factors are living components of an ecosystem, such as plants, animals, and microorganisms, while abiotic factors are non-living physical and chemical elements like temperature, salinity, and sunlight.
Identify each option in the problem and classify it as biotic or abiotic: Salinity of seawater is a chemical property (abiotic), sunlight intensity is a physical factor (abiotic), water temperature is a physical factor (abiotic), and phytoplankton are microscopic photosynthetic organisms (biotic).
Recognize that phytoplankton, being living organisms, contribute to the biological interactions and energy flow within the marine ecosystem, making them a biotic factor.
Confirm that the other options (salinity, sunlight intensity, water temperature) are environmental conditions that affect living organisms but are not themselves living, so they are abiotic factors.
Conclude that the correct biotic factor in the marine ecosystem from the given options is phytoplankton.
Related Videos
Related Practice
Marine Aquatic Biomes practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations