In this figure, the rectangle (P) depicts the range of temperature and rainfall in which a plant species can survive and propagate. The circle (Q) demarcates the range of temperature and rainfall in which this plant species is actually found.
Which one of the following statements about P and Q is accurate for this plant species?
To solve this question, we need to understand the ecological concepts of the fundamental niche and the realized niche.
- Fundamental Niche: This refers to the full range of environmental conditions (temperature, rainfall, etc.) under which a species can survive, grow, and reproduce without the presence of competitors or predators. It represents the ideal environmental conditions for the species.
- Realized Niche: This is the part of the fundamental niche that the species actually occupies in nature, taking into account the presence of competitors, predators, and other biotic interactions. It is usually narrower than the fundamental niche.
In the given diagram:
- P (Rectangle): This represents the range of temperature and rainfall conditions in which the plant species can potentially survive and propagate. Therefore, P represents the fundamental niche.
- Q (Circle): This depicts the range of conditions where the plant species is actually found, considering competition and other biotic factors. Thus, Q represents the realized niche.
Conclusion: Based on the definitions and the diagram, the correct statement is: P is the fundamental niche and Q is the realized niche.
Important Questions from Niche
Two species of fruit bats (Species 1 and Species 2) eat fruits of varying sizes. The curves shown represent the ecological niche for these two species. If the curves for both species were to completely overlap, which one or more of the statements given would be correct?
- Which one or more options is/are example(s) of niche partitioning between species?
The abundances of three species (P, Q, and R) were measured along a resource gradient. The resultant pattern is summarized in the figure. Which of the following statements can be inferred from niche theory?
- Assume that the abundance of a species in a community is proportional to the size of its niche. As each new species colonises this community, an existing niche is split. The resultant relative abundances of species in this community will be most uneven if:
- Species 1 and 2 belong to the same genus and co-occur at the same site. Which one or more of the following strategies would facilitate their coexistence at the site?
