Which of the following is NOT considered an abiotic factor of a forest?

In the context of forest ecosystems, abiotic factors refer to the non-living components that influence the environment and the organisms living within it. Climate, sunlight, and water are all integral abiotic factors, as they play critical roles in shaping the forest habitat.

Climate encompasses temperature, precipitation, and weather patterns, all of which can determine the types of trees and plants that can thrive in a particular area. Sunlight is crucial for photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy, and therefore, it influences plant growth and the overall productivity of the forest. Water is essential for all life forms and is a fundamental abiotic factor; it affects soil moisture and the availability of nutrients for plants.

In contrast, animals are classified as biotic factors, as they are living organisms that interact with each other and their environment. They participate in numerous ecological processes, such as pollination, seed dispersal, and food webs, and therefore are not considered abiotic factors. Recognizing the distinction between biotic and abiotic components is essential for understanding forest ecology and management.