Competition & Interdependence

What is competition in ecology?

When organisms compete for the same limited resources.

What do plants compete for?

Light, space, water and mineral ions.

What do animals compete for?

Food, mates and territory.

Why do plants compete for light?

Light is required for photosynthesis.

Why do plants compete for water?

Water is needed for photosynthesis, transport and maintaining turgor.

Why do plants compete for mineral ions?

Mineral ions are required for growth and the synthesis of essential molecules.

Why do animals compete for mates?

Successful mating is necessary for sexual reproduction.

Why do animals compete for territory?

Territory can provide food, shelter and breeding opportunities.

What is intraspecific competition?

Competition between individuals of the same species.

What is interspecific competition?

Competition between individuals of different species.

Why is intraspecific competition often intense?

Members of the same species usually require very similar resources.

What happens when resources become limited?

Competition increases, potentially reducing survival and reproduction.

How can competition affect population size?

Limited resources can restrict population growth.

How can competition influence natural selection?

Individuals with advantageous characteristics may obtain resources more successfully and reproduce.

Give an example of interdependence between plants and animals.

Flowering plants provide nectar, while pollinators transfer pollen.

How do animals help with seed dispersal?

They may carry seeds on their bodies or disperse them after eating fruit.

Why can the disappearance of pollinators affect plant populations?

Fewer flowers may be pollinated, reducing seed production.

What is mutualism?

A relationship in which both species benefit.

Give an example of mutualism.

Bees obtain nectar while flowers are pollinated.

Why can changes to one population affect the whole community?

Species are interdependent through feeding, competition and other relationships.