Ecology Continued

Niches
Fundamental Niche - Space and resources a species population would consume with no limiting factors
Realized Niche - space and resources a species population occupies when factors such as competition and limited resources are accounted for

When a species is introduced into an environment it starts in its fundamental niche, but as competition for resources increases, they can be forced into its realized niche


Smybiosis - two species that live together in benefit
Coloration - Species often use bright colors to deter predators from consuming them. Many who employ this are poisonous or extremely bad tasting

Mullerian Mimicry - Several species may have same colors, so it easy for predators to associate these colors or patterns with a "no go" on consuming

Batesian Mimicry - Look like the poisonous species to deter predators

Succession
As succession progresses, species diversity and biomass increase. Eventually, a final successful stage of constant species composition, called the climax community. Often a natural disaster will occur, causing the cycle to repeat.