Exam 5: Natural Selection and the Origin of Species

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The concept of environment refers to the physical, chemical, and biological factors that surround and influence an organism or a group of organisms. It includes both living (biotic) and non-living (abiotic) components such as air, water, soil, and other organisms. In contrast, the concept of habitat specifically refers to the place or type of environment in which a particular species or community of organisms lives. It is more specific and focused on the specific requirements and characteristics of a particular species, including the physical and biological features that are necessary for its survival and reproduction.

The concept of an ecological niche, on the other hand, refers to the role and position that a species has within its environment. It includes the range of physical and biological conditions under which a species can survive and reproduce, as well as its interactions with other species and its impact on the environment. The ecological niche is more about the functional role of a species within its habitat and how it interacts with the environment and other species, rather than just the physical location or type of environment in which it lives.

In summary, the concept of environment encompasses all the factors that surround and influence an organism, while habitat refers to the specific place or type of environment in which a species lives. The ecological niche, on the other hand, focuses on the functional role and interactions of a species within its environment. Each concept provides a different perspective on the relationship between organisms and their surroundings, highlighting the complexity and interconnectedness of ecological systems.