Competition

What are the 2 types of competition

1. Interspecific → Competition between diff species

2. Intraspecific → Competition between members of the same species

In terms of resources, what does interspecific competition usually result in?

Reduction on resource available to both populations

• Less food, so organisms have less energy for growth & reproduction

• Results in smaller populations

If one species is better adapted, and 2 species are competing for the same resource, what is likely to happen?

The less adapted species is likely to be outcompeted

• If conditions remain same, less well adapted species will decline in number

Competitive exclusion principle

Where 2 species are competing for limited resources, the one that uses the resources more effectively will ultimately eliminate the other

In terms of intraspecific variation, how does the availability of resources determine the population size?

The greater the availability, the larger the population that can be supported

• Results in fluctuations in no. of organisms present in a particular population over time

Explanation of the effects of intraspecific competition on a population graph stages

1. When a resource is plentiful in a habitat (e.g. food or space), all organisms have enough to survive & reproduce.

   • = increase in population size.

2. Due to increased population, many more individuals share the food/space available. -

   • Resources are now limited; not enough is available for all organisms to survive.

   • = Decrease in population size

3. Less competition exists as smaller population means less organisms are competing for the same resources.

   • more organisms survive & reproduce,

   • results in population growth.

Cycle repeats