Species which occupy similar niches in different geographical regions are called which one fo the following? (A) Ecotypes (B) Ecological guilds (C) Ecological equivalents (D) Ecological determinants

Options

A. Ecotypes
B. Ecological guilds
C. Ecological equivalents
D. Ecological determinants

Answer

To solve the question "Species which occupy similar niches in different geographical regions are called which one of the following?" we will analyze each option provided.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Question**: We need to identify the term that describes species occupying similar niches but in different geographical areas.

2. **Analyze Option A: Ecotypes**:
- Definition: Ecotypes refer to genetically distinct populations within a species that are adapted to specific environmental conditions.
- Conclusion: This term does not fit our requirement as it focuses on genetic variation within a species rather than niche occupation across different regions.

3. **Analyze Option B: Ecological Guilds**:
- Definition: Ecological guilds are groups of species that exploit the same or different resources in similar ways.
- Conclusion: While guilds involve resource use, they do not necessarily imply that the species occupy similar niches, so this option is not correct.

4. **Analyze Option C: Ecological Equivalents**:
- Definition: Ecological equivalents are organisms that occupy the same niche but in different habitats or geographical areas.
- Conclusion: This definition aligns perfectly with the question, as it describes species in different regions that fulfill similar ecological roles.

5. **Analyze Option D: Ecological Determinants**:
- Definition: Ecological determinants refer to the ecosystem-based goods and services provided by nature, such as water, food, and fuel.
- Conclusion: This term does not relate to species or niches, making it irrelevant to the question.

6. **Final Conclusion**: Based on the analysis, the correct answer is **(C) Ecological Equivalents**. These are species that occupy similar niches in different geographical regions.