In the context of ecology, what is the primary difference between a habitat and a niche?

• A. A niche is the organism's physical environment, while a habitat includes the organism's diet and behavior.
• B. A habitat is the physical environment where an organism lives, while a niche is the role the organism plays in its ecosystem.
• C. A habitat includes all the interactions an organism has with other species, while a niche is limited to the organism's physical environment.
• D. A niche is the physical environment where an organism lives, while a habitat is the role the organism plays in its ecosystem.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by defining the term 'habitat'. A habitat is the physical environment in which an organism lives. It includes factors like climate, terrain, and availability of resources such as water and food.
2. Next, define the term 'niche'. A niche refers to the role an organism plays within its ecosystem. This includes its interactions with other organisms, its diet, its behavior, and how it contributes to the energy flow and nutrient cycle within the ecosystem.
3. Understand that a habitat is more about the 'where' an organism lives, focusing on the physical space and conditions. It is the 'address' of the organism.
4. Recognize that a niche is more about the 'how' an organism lives, focusing on its functional role and interactions within the ecosystem. It is the 'occupation' of the organism.
5. Clarify the primary difference: A habitat is the physical environment, while a niche encompasses the organism's role, including its interactions and behaviors within the ecosystem.