Which of the following is an abiotic factor that is having a negative impact on marine populations?

• A. Spread of invasive jellyfish species
• B. Rising ocean temperatures
• C. Overfishing by humans
• D. Increased predation by sharks

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of abiotic factors. Abiotic factors are non-living components of an ecosystem that can influence living organisms. Examples include temperature, sunlight, water, and chemical composition.
2. Step 2: Analyze the options provided in the question. Identify which factors are abiotic and which are biotic. Biotic factors involve living organisms, such as jellyfish, humans, and sharks, while abiotic factors are non-living, such as ocean temperature.
3. Step 3: Focus on the impact of abiotic factors on marine populations. Rising ocean temperatures, an abiotic factor, can negatively affect marine life by causing coral bleaching, altering habitats, and disrupting food chains.
4. Step 4: Compare the abiotic factor (rising ocean temperatures) with the biotic factors (spread of invasive jellyfish species, overfishing by humans, and increased predation by sharks). Note that biotic factors involve interactions with living organisms, while abiotic factors are environmental conditions.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is 'Rising ocean temperatures,' as it is the only abiotic factor listed that negatively impacts marine populations.