The excretions of living organisms are best categorized as which type of factor in an environment?

• A. Climatic factor
• B. Abiotic factor
• C. Biotic factor
• D. Edaphic factor

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of each type of factor mentioned in the problem: Climatic factors are related to weather and atmospheric conditions (e.g., temperature, rainfall). Abiotic factors are non-living components of the environment (e.g., sunlight, water, minerals). Biotic factors are living components or their interactions (e.g., plants, animals, microorganisms). Edaphic factors are related to soil properties (e.g., pH, texture, nutrient content).
2. Recognize that excretions are substances produced and released by living organisms, such as waste products from metabolic processes.
3. Determine whether excretions are associated with living organisms or non-living components. Since excretions originate from living organisms, they are directly tied to biotic factors.
4. Eliminate other options based on their definitions: Excretions are not related to climatic conditions, soil properties, or non-living components, so Climatic, Abiotic, and Edaphic factors can be ruled out.
5. Conclude that the correct categorization for excretions of living organisms is Biotic factor, as they are produced by living entities and influence interactions within the ecosystem.