Which of the following is an example of an abiotic change in an ecosystem?

• A. A new predator species migrating into the area
• B. An increase in the population of herbivores
• C. A prolonged drought reducing water availability
• D. The spread of a plant disease among local flora

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the term 'abiotic.' Abiotic refers to non-living components of an ecosystem, such as sunlight, temperature, water, and soil. These factors influence the living organisms within the ecosystem but are not themselves alive.
2. Step 2: Analyze each option provided in the question. Determine whether the change described is caused by a biotic (living) factor or an abiotic (non-living) factor.
3. Step 3: Option 1: 'A new predator species migrating into the area' involves a living organism (predator), so this is a biotic change.
4. Step 4: Option 2: 'An increase in the population of herbivores' also involves living organisms (herbivores), making this a biotic change.
5. Step 5: Option 3: 'A prolonged drought reducing water availability' involves water, which is a non-living component of the ecosystem. This is an abiotic change. Option 4: 'The spread of a plant disease among local flora' involves living organisms (plants and pathogens), making this a biotic change.