ECOLOGICAL NICHE
◇ Niche refers to the unique functional role and position of a species in its habitat or ecosystem.
◇ The functional characteristics of a species in its habitat is referred to as “niche” in that common habitat.
◇ In nature, many species occupy the same habitat, but they perform different functions:
a) habitat niche – where it lives, food niche – what it eats or decomposes & what species it competes with,
b) reproductive niche – how and when it reproduces,
c) physical & chemical niche – temperature, land shape, land slope, humidity & another requirement.
◇ Niche plays an essential role in the conservation of organisms. If we have to conserve species in their native habitat, we should know the niche requirements of the species.
