Editing Ecological segregation (section)

===== Definition ===== 

Ecological segregation refers to the process by which different species within a community divide and occupy different ecological niches based on their specific requirements and adaptations. It typically occurs when two or more competing species share the same habitat but differentiate themselves in terms of resource use, habitat preference, or other ecological factors.

Ecological segregation helps to reduce competition among species by allowing each species to utilize different resources or occupy different habitats. This can lead to increased species diversity and overall stability within ecosystems. It also promotes coexistence and reduces the likelihood of one species dominating and pushing other species to extinction.

There are different forms of ecological segregation, including spatial segregation, temporal segregation, and resource segregation. Spatial segregation occurs when different species occupy different physical areas within a habitat. Temporal segregation involves species using the same habitat but at different times, such as nocturnal versus diurnal activity patterns. Resource segregation refers to species utilizing different resources within the same habitat, such as different food sources or different parts of a tree or plant.

Ecological segregation can be influenced by various factors, including competition for resources, predation, habitat availability, and evolutionary adaptations. It is an important mechanism in the maintenance of biodiversity and ecological balance within ecosystems.