Understanding Populations

How Species Interact with Each Other

Objectives

Explain the difference between niche and habitatGive examples of parts of a nicheDescribe the five major types of interactions between speciesExplain the difference between parasitism and predation

Niche

The unique role of a species within an ecosystemIncludes:

Species’ physical homeSpecies’ interactions with other organismsFactors necessary for the species’ survival

Habitat

Location where an organism resides

Includes:• Food • Water • Shelter

Types of Interactions

Competition- Different individuals or populations attempt to use the same limited resource

Niche overlap- Two different speciesIndirect competition- Two competitors never come in direct contact

Adaptations to competition:

Niche restriction- Each species uses less of the niche than they are capable of using

Types of Interactions

Predation- Interaction including a predator and prey

Predator- Organism that feeds on another organismPrey- Organism that is fed uponDynamic equilibrium- Pop. Numbers always changing, yet constant

Predation Adaptations:

Camouflage- Blending in with environment

Warning coloration- Striking coloration warning of chemical defenses

Mimicry- Species resembling each other

Protective covering- External defense against predation

Types of InteractionsParasite- Organism that lives in or on another organism and feeds on the other organismHost- The organism the parasite takes its nourishment fromParasitism- Relationship between parasite and host

Mutualsim- Close relationship between two species in which each benefits the otherEx. Acacia trees and ants

Types of Interactions

Commensalism- A relationship in which one species benefits and the other species is neither harmed nor benefited

Ex: Sharks and remoras

Symbiosis- Relationship between species in which at least one benefits

Coevolution- When two species evolve adaptations to benefit each otherEx: Flowers and butterflies

Types of Interactions