University:
Acadia University
Course:
BIOL 2663 | Marine Biology
Academic year:

2024
Views:

441

Pages:

4
Author:

Nabila N.

The Niche of an Organism This presentation will explore the concept of niche, a crucial factor for understanding the interactions between organisms and their environment Definition of Niche Role in Ecosystem An organism's niche encompasses its role and interactions within the ecosystem. It describes how an organism obtains food, shelter, and resources, and its relationships with other species. Unique Set of Conditions Each species occupies a unique niche, defined by its specific requirements and adaptations. The niche reflects the environmental conditions, resources, and interactions that support its survival and reproduction. Fundamental Niche vs. Realized Niche Fundamental Niche The full range of conditions and resources an organism could potentially use without competition. This is a theoretical concept, often limited by other species. Realized Niche The actual niche an organism occupies, accounting for the interactions with other species and the limitations of its resources Factors that Determine an Organism's Niche Food Resources The type of food an organism eats and how it obtains it. Interactions Relationships with other species, such as predation, competition, and symbiosis. Habitat The physical environment where an organism lives. including its shelter and nesting sites Climate The temperature, rainfall, and other climatic factors that influence an organismis survival How Niches Differ Between Species Resource Specialization Different species may exploit different resources within the same habitat. This can be seen in beak shapes, foraging techniques, and prey preferences Habitat Partitioning Species may occupy different parts of the same habitat, minimizing competition for resources. 3 4 Temporal Variation Species may be active at different times of day or night to avoid competition for resources. This can be seen in diurnal and nocturnal animals. Interspecific Competition and Niche Partitioning 1 Interspecific Competition Competition for resources between different species 2 Niche Partitioning Evolutionary process where species specialize in different aspects of their niche to minimize competition. Resource Specialization Species evolve to exploit different food sources, habitats, or foraging times. Reduced Competition Niche partitioning allows species to coexist and utilize resources more effectively. Adaptations that Allow Organisms to Fill Specific Niches Morphological Adaptations Physical characteristics that allow organisms to exploit specific resources or habitats, such as beak shape, body size, or limb structure Physiological Adaptations Internal processes that enable organisms to thrive in specific environments, such as temperature regulation, digestive systems, or tolerance to toxins. Behavioral Adaptations Learned or instinctive behaviors that help organisms obtain resources, avoid predators, or communicate with other species. Importance of Niche in Ecosystem Functioning Biodiversity Niches contribute to biodiversity by supporting a variety of species with unique roles in the ecosystem Stability Niche partitioning promotes stability by minimizing competition and allowing species to coexist Resource Use Niches ensure efficient resource utilization by dividing up resources and preventing overexploitation.