Niche Flashcards
Define “niche”
The ecological role of a species
What is the invasion criterion equation?
dN/dt = rN
Define “fundamental niche”
A set of environmental conditions where, in the absence of competitors, a species could increase in numbers
Define “realised niche”
A part of the fundamental niche in which the species occurs under field conditions. It takes into account competitors and natural enemies.
What is Ellenberg’s Rule?
When grown on their own, species grow best at the same pH. When grown together, species performance peaks at different soil pH - they must occupy different niches.
When species occupy non-overlapping geographical ranges:
Allopatric
When species occupy similar geographical ranges:
Sympatric
If 2 species have a similar geographic range and habitat, there must be little or no overlap in…
resource use
