Which of the following is a characteristic of an ecosystem?

The correct answer is characterized by the interactions among diverse organisms, which is a fundamental aspect of ecosystems. Ecosystems are comprised of various living organisms, including plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms, and they interact with each other and with their physical environment in complex ways. These interactions can include predator-prey relationships, symbiosis, competition for resources, and nutrient cycling, all of which contribute to the stability and functionality of the ecosystem.

The inclusion of diverse organisms is essential because ecosystems are not solely defined by the presence of living things; they also encompass the relationships and dynamics that arise from their interactions. This complexity allows ecosystems to maintain balance and resilience against environmental changes.

Contextually, the other options are more limited in scope or exclude critical elements that define an ecosystem. For instance, only terrestrial life forms and only plant life reduce the diversity aspect essential to ecosystems, while excluding non-living components fails to recognize that abiotic factors such as sunlight, water, and minerals are integral to the system's function and overall health. Thus, understanding ecosystems requires appreciating both the living and non-living components and their interactions.