A model of niche overlap and interaction in ecological systems

✍ Scribed by K. Steinmüller

• Publisher: John Wiley and Sons
• Year: 1980
• Tongue: English
• Weight: 812 KB
• Volume: 22
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 0323-3847
• DOI: 10.1002/bimj.4710220303

✦ Synopsis

Abstract

Ecological niches are the result of ecosystem element (compartment) interaction under the influence of environmental factors. The competence model is devised to map this interaction. It includes the assumption of an overall physiological state of a compartment depending only on intensive environmental factors, expressions for the adaptedness and competence of the compartment in interaction. Consequently, niches are environmental factor domains of superior competence. The situation of niches (niche structure) and competence maxima are extensively studied in the fundamental case of two interacting compartments and in the special case of n concentric compartments. The impact of one immigrating compartment is discussed. All detailed investigations made involve only one intensive environmental factor and the special assumption of similar physiological state functions of all compartments.