What is niche differentiation?

Niche differentiation refers to the process by which competing species adapt to utilize different resources or occupy different ecological niches, thereby reducing competition between them. This adaptation can involve changes in feeding habits, habitat preferences, or timing of activities, allowing species to coexist in the same environment without directly competing for the same resources.

When species occupy different niches, they can minimize overlap in resource use, which can lead to greater biodiversity and stability within an ecosystem. This concept is integral to understanding how species evolve and adapt in response to competition and environmental pressures, ultimately leading to the coexistence of multiple species in a given habitat.