niche differentiation

Niche differentiation is the process by which competing species evolve to use different resources or occupy different roles within the same environment. This reduces direct competition and allows multiple species to coexist. For example, different bird species might feed on different types of insects or forage in different parts of a tree. By specializing in different aspects of their habitat or food sources, each species minimizes overlap with others, promoting biodiversity and ecological stability. Essentially, niche differentiation helps species share an ecosystem more effectively by dividing available resources in ways that suit their unique adaptations.