Zonation within a community is typically the result of differences in the
A)patterns of predation among species within a community.
B)rates of reproduction among species within a community.
C)patterns of competition among species within a community.
D)physical characteristics of the environment across a spatial gradient.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Zonation refers to the spatial segregation of species within a community based on physical characteristics of their environment such as temperature, moisture, light or other features. Thus, differences in physical characteristics of the environment across a spatial gradient (such as variations in elevation, depth, distance from shore, etc.) are the most common factor leading to zonation patterns, as these physical factors create a range of habitats that can support different types of organisms with different adaptations. While predation, reproduction, and competition can also affect species distribution and abundance, they are typically not the primary drivers of zonation patterns.

Zonation Within a Community Is Typically the Result of Differences