Down at the Bay Question #6

How do biotic and abiotic factors influence the growth of populations?

Biotic and abiotic factors determine an organism's chance for survival- they can extend or reduce the life of an individual and over time can lead to the overall population's increase or decrease.

Biotic factors such as the availability of food and the presence of predators both determine a population's increase or decrease. For example, if clams were taken out of the Chesapeake Bay, then the smaller fish that normally consume the clams would gradually perish over time if they can not find another food source.

Abiotic factors such as climate, shelter, light, and soil conditions are factors that also determine whether or not a population increases. For example, if a chemical or harmful substance is released into the Bay, then the organisms would be affected and over time the Bay would be lifeless. 

"Each consumer depends on the trophic level below it for energy."

Citation: http://schoolworkhelper.net/biotic-and-abiotic-factors-influence-on-ecosystems/