Q. 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?

Answer: (b) Ecological niche

A 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 are referred to as “niche” in that common habitat.
In nature, many species occupy the same habitat, but they perform different functions.
- habitat niche – where it lives, food niche – what is eaten or decomposes & what species it competes with,
- reproductive niche – how and when it reproduces,
- physical & chemical niche – temperature, land shape, land slope, humidity & another requirement.
Niche plays an important role in the conservation of organisms. If we have to conserve species in their native habitat, we should have knowledge about the niche requirements of the species.

Ecotones are locations where two or more biological communities, ecosystems, or biotic regions meet.
Ecotones are formed when environmental conditions change abruptly.
The coexistence of different species and living forms is influenced by environmental changes, both within ecosystems and at their edges, where ecotones may arise.
Ecotones indicate a physical transition from one ecosystem to another, as well as a change in living conditions, including habitats and niches.
Ecotones are difficult environments for inner organisms, but they are rich in opportunities for edge organisms.
It has circumstances that are transitional between the neighbouring ecosystems. As a result, it is a tense zone.
Some species in a well-developed ecotone are completely distinct from those in neighbouring groups.
Edge Effect
- Edge effects refer to the changes in population or community structures that occur at the boundary of two habitats.
- Generally, there is a greater number of species found in these regions (ecotones) and this is called the edge effect. The species found here are called edge species.
Habitat – surroundings in which an organism lives (home).
Home Range – A home range is an area in which an animal lives and moves on a daily or periodic basis (a little bigger than habitat – home → office → home).