ED#3 Ecological Niches

What is the main focus of video three in the ecosystem dynamics module?

• Photosynthesis

• Cellular respiration

• Ecological niches

• Genetic mutations

What principle states that no two species can occupy the same niche?

• Natural selection

• Competitive exclusion principle

• Survival of the fittest

• Symbiotic relationship principle

What are the two key things looked at in the study of ecology?

• Distribution and abundance

• Predation and competition

• Migration and hibernation

• Mutation and selection

What factors are included in an ecological niche?

• Only abiotic factors

• Only biotic factors

• Neither biotic nor abiotic factors

• Both biotic and abiotic factors

What is allelopathy an example of?

• An organism altering its niche

• A mutualistic relationship

• A competitive relationship

• A symbiotic relationship

What is the difference between fundamental and realized niches?

• Fundamental niches are about competition, realized niches are not

• Realized niches are larger than fundamental niches

• There is no difference

• Fundamental niches are theoretical, realized niches are actual

Why are marsupials in Australia a good example of adaptive radiation?

• They occupy a large number of specific niches

• They have no competition

• They have not adapted to their environment

• They are the only mammals in Australia

What limits the realized niches of koalas?

• Competition with other marsupials

• Lack of eucalyptus trees

• Urbanization and domestic pets

• Their inability to adapt

What role do abiotic factors play in an ecological niche?

• They have no impact

• They are less important than biotic factors

• They are the only factors considered

• They often dominate the range of environmental factors

How do symbiotic relationships affect ecological niches?

• They reduce the number of available niches

• They can alter the niche

• They increase competition

• They have no effect