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Multiple Choice
Which principle states that two species in the same habitat cannot occupy the same niche?
A
Principle of Independent Assortment
B
Principle of Segregation
C
Hardy-Weinberg Principle
D
Competitive Exclusion Principle
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the concept of a 'niche' in ecology. A niche refers to the role or position a species has in its environment, including how it obtains resources, interacts with other organisms, and contributes to the ecosystem.
Next, familiarize yourself with the Competitive Exclusion Principle. This principle states that two species competing for the exact same resources cannot stably coexist. One species will outcompete the other, leading to the exclusion of the less competitive species.
Consider the implications of the Competitive Exclusion Principle in a shared habitat. If two species attempt to occupy the same niche, they will compete for identical resources, leading to one species dominating and the other being displaced or driven to extinction.
Contrast the Competitive Exclusion Principle with other principles mentioned, such as the Principle of Independent Assortment and the Principle of Segregation, which are related to genetics and inheritance, not ecological niches.
Finally, understand that the Hardy-Weinberg Principle is related to population genetics and allele frequencies in a population, which is different from the ecological interactions described by the Competitive Exclusion Principle.