Niche Partitioning and Barnacle Distribution

Flashcards reviewing fundamental and realized niches based on Connell's barnacle experiments.

What is a fundamental niche?

The physiologically optimal range of conditions for a species.

What is a realized niche?

The actual range of distribution of an organism, limited by factors like competition.

What is a method to determine an organism's fundamental niche?

Temporarily removing a competing species.

What are the two barnacle species studied by Connell?

Chthamalus stellatus and Semibalanus balanoides

Where is Chthamalus stellatus typically found?

Upper intertidal zone

Where is Semibalanus balanoides typically found?

Lower intertidal zone

According to Connell, what primarily limits the lower distribution of Chthamalus?

Competition with Semibalanus.

What environmental factor controls the upper limit of Chthamalus distribution?

Desiccation

What was the hypothesis of Connell's experiment?

Chthamalus is competitively excluded from the lower intertidal zone by Semibalanus.

Why does Chthamalus occupy the upper rock face?

It is more resistant to desiccation.