Biotic (Mineral Resources)

Biotic "mineral resources" are a misunderstanding of terms; biotic resources come from living or once-living organisms (like forests and animals), while mineral resources (like iron and copper) are abiotic, coming from non-living inorganic material. However, fossil fuels such as coal and petroleum are considered biotic resources because they are formed from the decomposed organic matter of once-living organisms. 

Biotic Resources

• Definition: Resources derived from the biosphere, which includes all living and once-living things.

• Examples: Plants, animals, fisheries, and forests.

• Fossil Fuels: Formed over millions of years from the remains of dead plants and animals, these are a specific type of biotic resource, often categorized as non-renewable.

  • Coal

  • Petroleum (oil)

  • Natural gas 

Abiotic Resources (Mineral Resources)

• Definition: Resources that are non-living and inorganic.

• Examples:

  • Metals: Iron, copper, gold, and silver found in mineral ores.

  • Other: Land, water, and air. 

Mineral resources are not biotic resources; they are categorized as abiotic resources because they are non-living, inorganic materials. The term "biotic resources" refers exclusively to resources derived from living or once-living organisms and the biosphere. 

Biotic Resources

Biotic resources are natural resources that originate from living organisms and the organic matter they produce. Key characteristics include the potential for regeneration through reproduction and growth, provided they are managed sustainably. 

Examples of biotic resources include:

• Flora (plants, forests, agricultural crops)

• Fauna (animals, birds, fish, livestock)

• Microorganisms (bacteria, fungi)

• Fossil Fuels (coal, petroleum, natural gas), which are considered biotic because they formed from the decayed organic matter of ancient plants and animals over millions of years

Mineral Resources (Abiotic)

Mineral resources are non-living components of the Earth's crust. They are classified as abiotic resources because they are inorganic and lack life. They do not possess the ability to reproduce or regenerate over a human timescale, making them generally non-renewable. 

Examples of mineral resources include:

• Metallic minerals (iron ore, copper, bauxite, gold)

• Non-metallic minerals (limestone, mica, gypsum, salt)