The 'niche model' is based on the premise:

Correct option is C

The niche model is a theoretical framework in ecology that defines a niche as the role an organism plays in an ecosystem. This includes what it eats, its habitat, and the species that predate upon it. The model emphasizes a species' position and relationships within the trophic structure, focusing on its feeding relationships (both consumption and predation).
· Option (a) misrepresents the model by suggesting a hierarchical overlap where species eat each other indiscriminately.
· Option (b) incorrectly assumes a species draws resources from all levels, which is not typically supported by the niche model.
· Option (d) exaggerates the concept by suggesting species are omnipresent across the trophic structure.
Thus, the correct answer is (c) as it aligns with the fundamental ecological definition of the niche model.
Information Booster: 1. A niche refers to the functional role of a species in its ecosystem, including its diet, habitat, and predators.
2. The niche model is used to predict patterns of species interactions, particularly in food webs.
3. It helps explain resource partitioning and species coexistence in ecosystems.
4. It emphasizes the specialization of species to reduce competition.
5. The model provides insights into ecosystem stability and resilience.
6. Niche differentiation is essential for maintaining biodiversity in a community.
Additional Knowledge: (a) Hierarchical sequence with overlapping entities:
This is not consistent with the niche model as it implies indiscriminate feeding interactions rather than specific trophic relationships.
(b) Restricted to a specific level but draws resources from all levels:
This incorrectly suggests species exploit resources from multiple trophic levels indiscriminately. In reality, the niche model emphasizes specificity and defined interactions.
(c) Fits a specific niche based on diet and predation:
This is correct. It captures the idea that each species occupies a unique position in the ecosystem, defined by its feeding interactions and its role within the trophic hierarchy.
(d) Widely distributed across the trophic structure:
This is incorrect as it contradicts the idea of niche specialization, which prevents species from being generalists across all levels.