With reference to ecological niche, consider the following statements:
1. Specialist species have a narrow niche, making them more vulnerable to environmental changes.
2. Generalist species are typically more resilient to habitat alterations due to their ability to exploit a wide range of resources.
3. Koalas, despite being herbivores, are considered generalists because they can consume leaves from multiple tree species.

Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Question

With reference to ecological niche, consider the following statements:
1. Specialist species have a narrow niche, making them more vulnerable to environmental changes.
2. Generalist species are typically more resilient to habitat alterations due to their ability to exploit a wide range of resources.
3. Koalas, despite being herbivores, are considered generalists because they can consume leaves from multiple tree species.

Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

ONLiNE UPSC · Accepted Answer

Statement 1 is correct: Specialist species rely on specific environmental conditions or food sources (e.g., the giant panda, which eats mainly bamboo). This makes them highly vulnerable to habitat changes.

Statement 2 is correct: Generalist species can survive in varied conditions and have a flexible diet (e.g., raccoons, rats). This adaptability makes them more resilient to environmental disruptions.

Statement 3 is not correct: Koalas are actually specialist species because they only eat eucalyptus leaves, making them highly dependent on eucalyptus forests. Their survival is threatened when these forests are lost.

Ecological Niche

Specialist and Generalist Species

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M Question 1	⏱ 0
With reference to ecological niche, consider the following statements: 1. Specialist species have a narrow niche, making them more vulnerable to environmental changes. 2. Generalist species are typically more resilient to habitat alterations due to their ability to exploit a wide range of resources. 3. Koalas, despite being herbivores, are considered generalists because they can consume leaves from multiple tree species. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3