Habitat refers to the physical place where an organism lives and can find everything it needs to survive – like food, water, and shelter. It includes both the living and non-living components of an ecosystem, such as forests, rivers, deserts, or even the human body. Each organism has specific habitat requirements based on its preferred environmental conditions.

On the other hand, a niche refers to the specific role an organism plays within its habitat. This role includes the resources it uses, interactions with other organisms, and how it contributes to the functioning of the ecosystem. Think of it as an organism’s “occupation” within its habitat. For example, some plants may have a niche as primary producers, converting sunlight into food through photosynthesis, while predators may have a niche as consumers, feeding on other organisms.

Habitat and niche are interconnected. An organism’s habitat provides the resources and conditions necessary for its niche to exist. Each organism has its own unique niche, which helps them avoid competition and find their place in the ecosystem.