Question

Among the followings, which one is not a biotic factor?-

• A. Neuston
• B. Nekton
• C. Tripton
• D. Pleuston

Hint:

Remember the definition of Seston:
\[ \text{Seston} = \text{Bioseston (living plankton)} + \text{Tripton (non-living detritus)} \]
Therefore, Tripton represents the abiotic component of suspended particulates.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Aquatic ecosystems consist of biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) components.
Organisms are further categorized into distinct ecological ecological groups based on their habitat, position, and movement within the water column.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us define the biological groups listed:
1. Neuston: Microscopic or small organisms that inhabit the surface layer of water (living biotic factor).
2. Nekton: Active, free-swimming organisms capable of moving independently of water currents, such as fish and squid (living biotic factor).
3. Pleuston: Larger organisms that float at the water-air interface, with parts of their bodies projecting into the air, such as Pistia or the Portuguese man-of-war (living biotic factor).
4. Tripton: The non-living, suspended organic and inorganic particulate matter (detritus) present in water (abiotic factor).
Since tripton consists of dead or inorganic organic matter, it is not a biotic factor.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Among the given options, Tripton is the only non-living, abiotic component.