Biotic Factors
1. Predation: The presence and activity of predators can significantly impact prey populations. Predators can control prey numbers, influence prey behavior (e.g., hiding, vigilance), and even drive prey evolution.
2. Competition: Competition for resources (food, water, mates, territory) can limit population growth and influence species distribution. This can occur between species (interspecific competition) or within a species (intraspecific competition).
3. Disease: Diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi can impact species health, mortality rates, and population dynamics. Some diseases can be spread more easily in crowded populations or under specific environmental conditions.
Abiotic Factors
1. Temperature: Temperature directly affects species survival, reproduction, and growth. Some species are adapted to specific temperature ranges and cannot survive in extreme conditions.
2. Sunlight: Sunlight provides energy for photosynthesis and is essential for plants and other primary producers. It also influences temperature and humidity, which can impact species distributions.
3. Water Availability: Water is essential for all living organisms. Availability of water can impact species survival, growth, and reproduction, especially in arid or semi-arid regions.
