Question

Vertical distribution of different species occupying different levels in a biotic community is known as-
A. Zonation
B. Pyramid
C. Divergence
D. Stratification

Answer 1

In an ecosystem, various living and nonliving components exist together, with a constant bi-directional transfer of energy. It is the base for the existence of life.

Complete Answer:
The composition of an ecosystem is determined by the identification as well as the enumeration of the species present in it. The vertical distribution of various species that occupy different levels in a biotic community is known as Stratification. Considering an example, trees constitute the topmost vertical part or strata in a forest ecosystem, followed by shrubs, herbs, and finally by grasses in the bottom-most layer.
Considering the other given options:
A. Zonation is any pattern that is observed in a community over a distance. It is determined by the flora and fauna in that area. Thus A is not the correct option.
B. In biology, a pyramid is also known as an ecological pyramid. It is a graphical representation, used to show factors such as biomass, or productivity in each trophic level. Thus B is also not the right option.
C. Divergence or genetic divergence occurs when individuals which are related ancestrally attain changes that are genetically inheritable, and emerge as different populations. Thud C is also not the answer.

Thus the most appropriate answer is D, Stratification is the Vertical distribution of different species occupying different levels in a biotic community.

Note: In the field such as community ecology, apart from vertical stratification, there is also a phenomenon known as horizontal stratification. Various aquatic ecosystems such as a lake community represent the Horizontal type of stratification.