Download WHAT IS A NICHE?

© Victoria Chapman & Associates
WHAT IS A NICHE?
Every species has its own way of life, or role, in its ecosystem. This is its ecological niche.
A species’ niche includes the place it occupies and its job—the role it plays
to help keep the community in balance. Each species is adapted to its niche.
ITS JOB: WHAT IT EATS AND/OR WHAT IT’S EATEN BY; ITS USE OF RESOURCES,
SUCH AS LIGHT, WATER, AND SPACE , PLUS OTHER HABITS AND BEHAVIOR
HONEYBEE
ITS HABITAT, OR HOME
SAGUARO CACTUS
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Hives, tree hollows, and cliffs
in many ecosystems
Sonoran Desert in the
southwestern United States
and in Mexico
Collects flower nectar and
pollen to make honey.
Provides tasty fruit that
desert animals and people
love to eat.
Pollinates flowering plants, making it possible for them
to reproduce. Honey provides food for many other animals,
which steal it from the bees.
Provides shelter
for birds that dig
nesting holes in it
“Nurse” plants provide shade
in which young cacti grow.
Saguaros store water from rare
desert rains, so they provide water
for many desert animals.