# Explain how predation can shape the ecological niche of a prey species over evolutionary time.

> IB DP Biology Higher Level (2023 syllabus) — B4.2 Ecological niches · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Predation exerts natural selection pressure on the prey population, favouring individuals with traits that reduce predation risk.
2. Over generations, allele frequencies shift so that traits reducing predation risk (e.g. cryptic colouration, altered behaviour, changed microhabitat use) become more common.
3. These evolutionary changes alter the prey species' realised niche — including shifts in microhabitat use, activity patterns, or diet — to reduce encounters with the predator.
4. This coevolutionary dynamic (an 'evolutionary arms race') means the predator may also evolve in response, producing reciprocal niche changes across both species over time.

## Key terms

- [ecological niche](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/ecological-niche)

## Related

- [Revision notes for IB DP Biology Higher Level (2023 syllabus)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-predation-can-shape-the-d3c9b81d) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.