Describes the total range of environmental conditions that are
suitable for a species existence without the effects of
interspecific competition and predation from other species. The
range of condition under which an organism could survive if it
were the only one in the environment. (Contrast with realized
niche.) The multidimensional space that an animal would occupy
under optimal conditions in the absence of competitors; also
called preferred niche. Contrast with realized niche. Set of
resources and physical factors required for survival and
reproduction of individuals of a species; see also Realized
Niche the full potential range of the physical, chemical, and
the biological factors a species can use if there is no
competition from other species. See ecological niche. Compare
with realized niche.