What is true about a biotic factor in an ecosystem?

A biotic factor in an ecosystem refers to any living component that affects other organisms in that environment. This includes plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms, all of which play significant roles in the ecosystem's dynamics. For instance, plants provide oxygen and food, predators control prey populations, and decomposers break down dead organic matter, thus recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem. The interactions among these biotic components are critical for maintaining the balance and health of the ecosystem, which underscores the truth of the statement that a biotic factor influences other organisms.

In contrast, the idea that a biotic factor must always be the dominant species overlooks the fact that ecosystems are composed of diverse organisms that can coexist and have varying levels of influence. The assertion that biotic factors serve as non-living features is incorrect because biotic factors are inherently living entities. Lastly, claiming that biotic factors are irrelevant to the food web neglects their foundational role in energy transfer and nutrient cycling, which are integral to the food webs that define ecosystem structure and function.