Which of the following best explains why disease is considered a biotic factor?

• A. Because it is caused by living organisms such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi.
• B. Because it is a non-living component of the environment.
• C. Because it results from changes in temperature and humidity.
• D. Because it is related to the availability of sunlight.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of biotic factors: Biotic factors are living components of an ecosystem that affect the survival and reproduction of organisms. Examples include plants, animals, bacteria, fungi, and other living organisms.
2. Analyze the role of disease in an ecosystem: Diseases are caused by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, all of which are living organisms. These pathogens interact with their hosts, making disease a biotic factor.
3. Eliminate incorrect options: Diseases are not non-living components (abiotic factors), so the option stating 'Because it is a non-living component of the environment' is incorrect. Similarly, diseases are not directly caused by changes in temperature, humidity, or sunlight, so the options related to these abiotic factors are also incorrect.
4. Focus on the correct explanation: Since diseases are caused by living organisms (pathogens), the correct explanation aligns with the definition of biotic factors.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is: 'Because it is caused by living organisms such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi,' as this best explains why disease is considered a biotic factor.