Question

The spatial pattern of density and distribution of species along a horizontal gradient is called as
A) Stratification
B) Zonation
C) Trophic niche
D) Volume niche

Answer 1

Hint: Spatial pattern of density and distribution of species is a deeper concept in ecology to study its biodiversity pattern.

Complete Answer:
Option a: Stratification is defined as a process of treating seeds for simulating the favourable natural conditions that a plant seed must experience before it proceeds ahead with its stage of germination. Thus, this is the incorrect option.
Option b: The process of zonation is defined as the categorization of the biomes into different zones in accordance with their distribution or arrangement pattern in a habitat. This categorization is further influenced by several environmental factors such as temperature, altitude, etc. Intertidal zones are an example of zonation. Thus, this is the correct option.
Option c: The trophic niche of any species studies the process of who eats whom. Thus, this is the incorrect option.
Option d: Volume niche means the total volume of organisms living in the given niche. Thus, this is the incorrect option.

Therefore, the correct option is b) Zonation.

Note: Zonation is caused due to the following reasons,
- Temperature
- Salinity
- Wave action
- Light intensity