How is the term 'niche' generally defined in ecology?

The term 'niche' in ecology refers to the comprehensive role that an organism plays in its ecosystem, which encompasses how it interacts with other organisms and the environment it inhabits, as well as the resources it utilizes. This includes aspects such as food preferences, habitat choice, and the relationships it has with both competitors and prey.

By defining the niche this way, it recognizes that an organism’s existence is not limited to just physical location or diet; rather, it is a broader concept that intertwines the various environmental factors and behaviors that contribute to its survival and reproductive success. This holistic perspective allows ecologists to understand how species coexist and how they adapt to changes in their surroundings.