Question

An earthworm's niche is described by the statement that

• A. Earthworms are decomposers who live in the soil.
• B. Earthworms eat decaying organic matter.
• C. Earthworms are usually found living in the soil.
• D. Earthworms are used as food by some birds.
• E. Earthworms help the soil by aerating it.

Answer 1

The correct option is A Earthworms are decomposers who live in the soil.

Niche refers to the totality of an organism’s adaptations, its mode of use of available resources, and the lifestyle in its community. It includes the mode of consumption of materials in its environment as well as its interactions with other organisms. Habitat portion of earthworm's fundamental niche refers to the soil while its role as decomposer is the realized niche. Thus, the correct answer is A.