Vertical distribution of different species occupying different levels in a biotic community is known as

Options

A. zonation
B. pyramid
C. divergence
D. stratification

Answer

To solve the question about the vertical distribution of different species occupying different levels in a biotic community, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Question**: The question asks for the term that describes the vertical distribution of species in a biotic community. This means we are looking for a concept that relates to how different species are arranged or layered in a vertical manner within an ecosystem.

2. **Analyze the Options**:
- **Option 1: Zonation**: This term refers to the arrangement of different communities or ecosystems in a horizontal manner across a landscape, not specifically vertical.
- **Option 2: Pyramid**: This typically refers to the structure of a food chain or food web, illustrating the distribution of biomass or energy at different trophic levels, but it does not specifically indicate vertical distribution of species.
- **Option 3: Divergence**: This term generally refers to the process by which two or more related species become more dissimilar over time, which is not related to vertical distribution.
- **Option 4: Stratification**: This term specifically refers to the layering of different species or communities in a vertical manner, such as in forests where different layers (canopy, understory, forest floor) host different species.

3. **Select the Correct Answer**: Based on the analysis, the correct term that describes the vertical distribution of species in a biotic community is **Stratification** (Option 4).

### Final Answer:
The vertical distribution of different species occupying different levels in a biotic community is known as **Stratification**.

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