How might an ecologist test whether a species is occupying all of its fundamental niche or only a portion of it?
A) Study the temperature range and humidity requirements of the species.
B) Observe if the species expands its range after the removal of a competitor.
C) Measure the change in reproductive success when the species is subjected to environmental stress.
D) Observe if the niche size changes after the introduction of a similar non-native species.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If the species expands its range after the removal of a competitor, this suggests that the species was previously only occupying a portion of its fundamental niche due to competition. If the species is already occupying its entire fundamental niche, the removal of a competitor would not result in a range expansion. The other options may provide information about the species' environmental requirements and interactions with other species, but do not directly assess whether the species is occupying all or only a portion of its fundamental niche.

How Might an Ecologist Test Whether a Species Is Occupying