Final answer:
The correct answer to the student's question is D) Bacteria decomposing organic matter. This is a direct interaction between a living organism, bacteria, and its environment as it breaks down organic matter, demonstrating a biodynamic interaction crucial for the ecosystem's nutrient cycle.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question posed by the student: "Which of the following is an example of an interaction?" is seeking an example of an interaction within an ecosystem. An interaction involves either biotic components (organisms) or abiotic components (elements of the environment) affecting each other.
- Sunlight reaching plants (Abiotic to Biotic)
- Wind eroding rocks (Abiotic to Abiotic)
- Fish swimming in a pond (Biotic)
- Bacteria decomposing organic matter (Biotic to Biotic)
The correct answer is D, bacteria decomposing organic matter. This is a clear example of a biotic interaction where bacteria (living organisms) break down organic matter (dead or decaying organisms), which is crucial for recycling nutrients in an ecosystem. Examples of Biotic and Abiotic Interactions : Ecology studies the interactions between biotic factors, such as organisms like plants and animals, and abiotic factors. For instance, all animals (biotic factors) breathe in oxygen (an abiotic factor), while all plants absorb carbon dioxide (an abiotic factor) and need water (an abiotic factor) to survive. The presence of decomposers like bacteria ensures the cycling of nutrients and thus contributes to ecosystem stability. If decomposers did not exist, nutrients would not be returned to the ecosystem, affecting the growth and function of other organisms.