Explain why species that overlap a great deal in their fundamental niches have a

Question

Explain why species that overlap a great deal in their fundamental niches have a high probability of competing. Now explain why species that overlap a great deal in their realized niches and live in the same area, probably do not compete significantly.

Controlling the flow of energy in trophic webs is a complex issue and scientists have concluded that the flow of energy within an ecosystem can be explained by two hypotheses: (1)Top-down and (2) bottom-up control. What are two main differences between these two approaches on the control of trophic webs? Use specific examples to illustrate your point

Explanation / Answer

the species that overlap do not compete with eachother significantly due to niche differentiaton. it is a process by which competing species use the environment differrntly in a way that helps them to co exist.

Species if they differntiate their niches, compete less and thus exist longer. they can differentiate niches by consuming different foods or using diferent parts.

they usually have a high probability of competing as they have more abundant resources and less parasites to go agaisnt them but indeed they do not for coexisting. if they do not niche differentitate, one species will lead to the extinction of other.

in ecology, a top-down control refers when a top predator controls the structure or population dynamics of ecosystem. for example lets take kelp forest ecosystem. in these sea otters are keystone predators. they prey on urchins which inturn eat kelp. when otters are removed, urchins grow in number and reduce kelp forest creating urchins barrens. means it is contrlled by top predator but not kelp productivity.

bottom up control is one in which the nutrient supply and productivity and plants control the ecosystem structure. plankton populations tend to be higher and more complex in areas where upwelling brings nutrients to surface.

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