* Diet: They primarily prey on white-tailed deer, but also consume other mammals like raccoons, armadillos, and rabbits. This makes them crucial for maintaining the balance of these populations.
* Habitat: They inhabit a limited range of pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, and prairies in South Florida. Their presence helps regulate the ecosystem by keeping prey populations in check and contributing to the decomposition of carcasses.
* Role in the food web: As apex predators, they sit at the top of the food chain, controlling the populations of their prey, which in turn influences the populations of other species. This helps to maintain the overall health and stability of the ecosystem.
However, the Florida panther's niche is under threat due to factors like:
* Habitat loss and fragmentation: Development, agriculture, and urban sprawl have significantly reduced their habitat and isolated populations, leading to genetic problems.
* Human conflict: Roadkill and human-wildlife conflict are significant threats.
* Disease: They are susceptible to diseases transmitted by domestic animals.
Therefore, the Florida panther's niche is complex and facing challenges. Its role as an apex predator is vital for the health of the South Florida ecosystem, but its survival depends on human efforts to protect and restore its habitat.