An ecotone is a boundary zone between two distinct plant communities, such as a forest and grassland. This area displays characteristics of both neighboring ecosystems and often supports unique species not found in either community.

Features of Ecotone:

An ecotone is a transitional area between two vegetation communities.

It can be identified by clear changes in vegetation, physical appearance, or species composition. For instance, differences in plant height or changes in species dominance can indicate an ecotone. The presence of unique or introduced species can also reveal the type of biome or interaction between the two communities.

Ecotones can range from broad belts to small pockets, such as a clearing in a forest, where two neighboring communities blend. This interaction between communities is known as the edge effect. An ecotone can provide a diverse ecosystem, as different forms of life must coexist and compete for space.

Examples:

“The Mangrove Forests act as a transitional zone between marine and terrestrial ecosystems. 

The Grasslands serve as a boundary between deserts and forests. 

The Estuaries provide a link between saltwater and freshwater environments.”

The significance of ecotones lies in their role as buffer zones in protecting adjacent ecosystems from catastrophic events, such as tsunamis. They also act as biodiversity hotspots, promoting gene flow and evolution. Ecotones are important for both the environment and scientific research.

Ecological Niche:

An ecological niche refers to the relationship between a species and the biotic and abiotic factors that influence it. The niche describes how a species responds to resource availability and competition, and how it affects these factors in turn. Each species has a unique niche and to conserve a species, it is necessary to understand its niche requirements and ensure they are met.

Both abiotic (temperature, climate, soil type) and biotic factors shape the niche of an ecosystem. Abiotic factors form the niches, while natural selection determines which niches are favored. Over time, species develop adaptations to their environment.

Example: Xerophytic plants have evolved various adaptations to thrive in dry environments. These adaptations help conserve water within the plant and reduce water loss. Some of the key adaptations include:

• Leaf movements or folding
• Leaf drop during dry spells
• Waxy cuticle to limit evaporation
• Hairy leaf coverings for insulation. Also, some plants like succulents open their stomata at night and close during the day to reduce water loss during peak heat.