The Ecological Niche Plays A Unique Role in an Ecosystem
Definition
Ecological niche
- An ecological niche encompasses more than just the physical location where a species lives (its habitat). It describes how an organism interacts with its environment, including both the biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) components.
- In every ecosystem, each species occupies a unique role, referred to as its ecological niche.
- This niche integrates both biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) factors, defining how a species survives, grows, and reproduces in its environment.
Key Components of an Ecological Niche
1. Zones of Tolerance for Abiotic Variables
- A species’ habitat is determined by its zones of tolerancefor factors like temperature, light, and moisture.
- These abiotic conditions define where a species can live and thrive.
Definition
Zone of tolerance
The range of abiotic conditions a species can withstand.
Think of zones of tolerance as a "comfort range" for species, going outside this range can stress or even eliminate them.
2. Food Source and Nutrition Specialization
- Species obtain energy through photosynthesis (e.g., plants) or by consuming other organisms (e.g., animals, fungi).
- To reduce competition, species often specialize in a specific mode of nutrition or adapt to unique food sources.
Herbivores consume plants, while carnivores rely on animals as their primary energy source.
ExampleA hummingbird's long, narrow beak is specialized for extracting nectar from flowers, reducing competition with other birds that feed on seeds or insects.
