1. Brine Shrimp and Salinity: Brine shrimp (Artemia) are a keystone species in Mono Lake. They thrive in the lake's extremely high salinity, which is much higher than most other aquatic environments. This salinity acts as a barrier, keeping out most fish species that would compete with the brine shrimp. The high salinity is an abiotic factor that directly influences the population and success of the brine shrimp.
2. Birds and Alkalinity: Mono Lake is known for its high alkalinity, a result of the high levels of dissolved salts. This alkalinity creates a unique habitat for birds. Many species, like the California Gull, use the lake as a breeding ground and rely on the alkaline water for their food sources, which include brine shrimp and alkali flies. The alkaline water, an abiotic factor, shapes the bird community and their ability to utilize the lake.
