Niche

It defines how an organism feeds, where it lives, and how it

behaves in relation to other organisms in its habitat.

It identifies a precise conditions a species needs. Different niches for the same species helps to avoid

competition

Adaptation to niches
A successful species is adapted well to its niche. These adaptation maybe of various types.

They are anatomical, physiological and behavioural.

Anatomical adaptation

How the body of an organism is optimized for survival and reproduction.

Examples are body structures adapted to regulate

heat loss in various mammals. The thick layer of blubber in seals and whales, and the sticky hairs on the sundew plant

 Physiological adaptation
How an organisms internal workings help them to survive and reproduce.
Example: diving mammals can stay under water for

far longer than non diving mammals without drowning.

Their heart rate drops dramatically Blood is pumped around the body less often. Oxygen in their blood is not used up readily. The main body muscles can work more effectively using

anaerobic respiration. so the oxygen carrying blood is directed to the brain and heart where it is still needed. This is called mammalian diving response.

Behavioural adaptation
How organisms behave in order to survive and reproduce.

Example:
Penguins live in large communities . This helps them keep warm and also protect them from predators. When the chicks are born they huddle together to stay warm. They picks up stones and store it in their crops . This helps them heavier when they are in water.

SPECIAL ADAPTATIONS
Xerophytic adaptation Store water in their stems and leaves (succulents). Lacks leaves which reduce transpiration. Long root system to go deep into the ground to absorb water. Spines to discourage animals from eating plants for water. Waxy coating on stems and leaves reduce water loss.

Cactus plant with spines

Cactus displayed light coloured hair

Plant with waxy coating on leaves

HYDROPHYTIC ADAPTATION
Small or dissected lamina to avoid damage to the leaves.

Presence of air spaces help in buoyancy and to store gases for photosynthesis and respiration. No cuticle on leaves which allow effective gas exchange in completely submerged plants.

Absence of stomata in completely

In partially submerged plants stomata is on upper surface. The roots are either poorly developed or completely absent The stem is long spongy and flexible. The stem has large air space.

Mechanical tissue is either absent or poorly developed. Vascular tissues are poorly developed.

SPECIAL FEATURES OF AQUATIC INVERTEBRATES TO COPE WITH CHANGING OXYGEN CONCENTRATION

Large surface area to volume ratio

Have flattened body Presence of tracheal gills Presence of breathing tubes (siphon)