Which one of the following terms describes not only the physical space occupied by an organism but also its functional role in the community of organisms?
- A.Ecotone
- B.Ecological niche
- C.Habitat
- D.Home range
▶ Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: B. Ecological niche
An ecological niche encompasses the total sum of an organism's biological and physical requirements and interactions within its environment, including its habitat, diet, predators, and its role in the food web. It is a multidimensional concept that goes beyond just the physical location, incorporating how the organism utilizes resources and influences other species. A habitat, in contrast, is solely the physical place where an organism lives.
Source: UPSC gs1 2013