Identify one biotic factor and one abiotic factor critical to the survival of a prairie ecosystem.

Biotic; grazing mammals; abiotic; soil quality

To identify one biotic factor critical to the survival of a prairie ecosystem, we need to consider living organisms that directly or indirectly impact the ecosystem's functioning. One vital biotic factor for the prairie ecosystem is grazing mammals. Grazing mammals such as bison and pronghorn play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem by consuming grasses and other vegetation, preventing overgrowth, and promoting the growth of new plants.

Now, let's identify one abiotic factor critical to the survival of a prairie ecosystem. Abiotic factors include non-living components that affect the ecosystem. In the case of a prairie, soil quality is an essential abiotic factor. Healthy and nutrient-rich soil is crucial for the growth and development of plants in the prairie ecosystem. The soil composition influences factors such as water availability, nutrient availability, and the stability of plant roots, all of which affect the survival and productivity of the species in the ecosystem.