Question

The niche of a species is meant for
A. The specific place where an organism lives
B. The specific function of species and its competitive power
C. The habitat and specific functions of species
D. None of these

Answer 1

Hint:- Environment consists of both abiotic and biotic components. In an ecological system, living organisms interact among themselves and also with the abiotic environment. Habitat is a part of the ecosystem where an organism lives, grows and thrives.

Complete step-by-step solution:- In an ecosystem, there can be several habitats which support a number of species. Factors prevailing in a habitat are responsible for the presence of the best suited species in that habitat. Such species are well adapted to reproduce and thrive in those conditions. Habitat provides the species with food and shelter.
Within a habitat are present several ecological niches. These niches are species specific and support only a single species. No two species living in the same habitat can occupy the same ecological niche for long. Two niches may overlap but they show distinct differences to avoid competition for the same resources. This avoids overcrowding and shortage of food. A niche defines the functional role of a species in its habitat or ecosystem.
The niche of an organism/species may demonstrate three main aspects. These are-
Spatial or habitat niche- It is the physical space occupied by an organism in its habitat. Various species may occupy different microhabitats within a single habitat.
Trophic Niche – It shows how functional roles differ in different species who may share the same habitat but occupy different trophic niches.
Multidimensional niche – It is the fundamental niche of a species and explains how a given species is uniquely adapted to the prevailing conditions in a habitat.
So the correct answer is (C), The habitat and specific functions of species.

Note:- The term “Niche” was coined by Joseph Grinnel. Some organisms occupy a very specific niche to encounter less interspecific competition and are called niche specialists. E.g. Panda Bear. On the other hand, many species have evolved and adapted to live in different environmental conditions and use the available resources. These species are called niche generalists, e.g. Coyotes.