The fundamental niche refers to the full range of environmental conditions and resources that a species could theoretically occupy and utilize in the absence of competition, predation, or other limiting factors. It represents the potential space a species can inhabit based solely on its physiological and ecological requirements.
In contrast, the realised niche describes the actual conditions and resources a species occupies in nature, taking into account the interactions with other organisms, such as competition, predation, and mutualism. These biotic factors often restrict a species from fully utilising its fundamental niche, resulting in a realised niche that is typically narrower. This distinction helps explain why species may not always be found in all areas where they could theoretically survive and thrive, emphasising the role of biotic interactions in shaping ecological communities.
The task below includes details of both the fundamental and realised niche of the Common Myna bird and requires learners to research the details for a different chosen species.