Question

Are dead things biotic?

Answer 1

Hint: Biotic substances are defined as any substance that performs various functions such as respiration, reproduction, excretion, digestion, etc. These living components are susceptible to affect another biotic organism and shape the ecosystem.

Complete answer:
Every biotic organism has a life span and is susceptible to death after their life span ends. When the organisms die, they are still regarded as abiotic or living entities. When living organisms die, they are subjected to a process known as decomposition. It is the process in which the organisms’ organs and complex molecules are broken down into simpler molecules such as carbon dioxide, water, simple sugars, and mineral salts over time. Invertebrates there are five stages of decomposition namely: fresh, bloat, active decay, advanced decay, and dry. There is a particular rate at which different organisms decay. The decomposition of organisms depends on various environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and availability of oxygen. After a living organism is completely decomposed, whatever is left of the organism is said to be abiotic. Abiotics are substances that are non-living chemical and physical factors of the environment such as temperature, water salinity, pH of the substances, air composition, etc.

Note:
The process of decomposition is facilitated by various microorganisms such as certain bacteria and fungi. Animals such as earthworms break the dead component into smaller pieces known as fragmentation to increase the surface area for the bacteria to grow on it and facilitate decomposition. Decomposition is not restricted to biotic things. Abiotic things such as cardboard boxes, paper, etc, also get decomposed by bacteria and fungi.