Which of the following is NOT considered an abiotic factor?

In ecological terms, abiotic factors refer to the non-living components of an environment that influence the living organisms within it. These factors include elements like temperature, water availability, and mineral composition, all of which are vital in shaping ecosystems and determining the types of organisms that can thrive in specific areas.

Plant species, on the other hand, are categorized as biotic factors. Biotic factors encompass all living aspects of an environment, including animals, plants, fungi, and microorganisms. The presence and diversity of plant species can significantly affect ecosystem dynamics, influencing interactions such as those between predators and prey, as well as competition for resources.

Thus, the classification of the options reveals that while temperature, water availability, and mineral composition are all vital abiotic components impacting landscapes and habitats, plant species belong firmly within the realm of biotic factors. Understanding this distinction is critical for studying ecosystems, as it highlights the vital roles that both living and non-living factors play in ecological relationships.