Biotic Factors (Living):
* Plants:
* Dominant: Sawgrass, cypress trees, mangroves, ferns, orchids, bromeliads
* Other: Water lilies, pickerelweed, cattails, sedges, algae
* Animals:
* Mammals: Florida panther, white-tailed deer, raccoons, bobcats, otters, manatees
* Birds: Bald eagles, wood storks, herons, ibis, egrets, anhingas, limpkins, sandhill cranes, migratory birds
* Reptiles: Alligators, crocodiles, snakes (pythons, water moccasins), turtles, lizards
* Amphibians: Frogs, toads, salamanders
* Fish: Bass, catfish, mullet, gar, snook, tarpon
* Invertebrates: Insects, spiders, crabs, shrimp, snails, crayfish
* Microorganisms: Bacteria, fungi, protozoa
Abiotic Factors (Non-living):
* Water:
* Quantity: The Everglades is a wetland, with varying water levels throughout the year. Rainfall and seasonal floods are crucial.
* Quality: Water quality is affected by pollution, nutrient levels, and salinity.
* Flow: Water flows slowly through the Everglades, creating different habitats and supporting unique species.
* Sunlight: The amount of sunlight reaching the Everglades varies seasonally, impacting plant growth and animal behavior.
* Temperature: The Everglades experiences a subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. However, fluctuations in temperature can influence plant growth and animal activity.
* Soil: The Everglades has a unique type of soil called "peat" which is formed from decaying plant matter. It is rich in organic matter and water-retentive.
* Fire: Fire is a natural part of the Everglades ecosystem, playing a crucial role in maintaining the open grasslands.
* Air: The air quality in the Everglades can be affected by pollution from surrounding areas, impacting plant and animal health.
Key Interactions:
* Water Flow: Influences plant distribution, animal movement, and nutrient transport.
* Sunlight: Drives photosynthesis, supporting plant growth and the food chain.
* Fire: Clears out invasive species and promotes the growth of fire-adapted plants.
* Soil: Provides a foundation for plants and supports the diverse flora and fauna.
The interaction of these biotic and abiotic factors creates a complex and dynamic ecosystem with a unique biodiversity. Understanding these interactions is crucial for conserving the Everglades and its inhabitants.
