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Multiple Choice
Which principle states that two species in the same habitat cannot occupy the same niche indefinitely?
A
Law of independent assortment
B
Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium
C
Competitive exclusion principle
D
Founder effect
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of a 'niche' in ecology: A niche refers to the role or position a species has in its environment, including its interactions with other species, its habitat, and its use of resources.
Recognize the principle in question: The Competitive Exclusion Principle states that two species competing for the exact same resources cannot stably coexist in the same niche indefinitely. One species will outcompete the other, leading to the exclusion or adaptation of the less competitive species.
Differentiate this principle from other terms mentioned: The 'Law of Independent Assortment' relates to genetics and the inheritance of traits, the 'Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium' pertains to population genetics and allele frequencies, and the 'Founder Effect' describes genetic drift in small populations.
Apply the Competitive Exclusion Principle to the scenario: If two species are in the same habitat and occupy the same niche, they will compete for identical resources. Over time, one species will dominate, forcing the other to adapt, migrate, or face extinction.
Conclude that the correct answer is the Competitive Exclusion Principle, as it directly addresses the inability of two species to occupy the same niche indefinitely in the same habitat.