Which is a biotic factor that could affect an ecosystem?

Bacteria harming the health of organisms in an ecosystem is considered a biotic factor because it involves living organisms that directly interact with other organisms within that ecosystem. Biotic factors include all living components that can impact the survival, growth, and reproduction of organisms. In this case, harmful bacteria can affect the health and populations of various species, potentially leading to disease outbreaks or changes in community structure.

Understanding how biotic factors, like bacteria, influence ecosystems is essential for recognizing the balance between different life forms and the roles they play in maintaining ecosystem health. In contrast, dust storms, acid rain, and high levels of carbon dioxide are abiotic factors, as they pertain to non-living chemical and physical components that can affect ecosystems but do not involve direct biological interactions.