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Multiple Choice
When would a researcher be most likely to observe resource partitioning among species in an ecosystem?
A
When resources are unlimited and competition is minimal
B
When a single species occupies an isolated environment with no competitors
C
When two species compete for similar resources in the same habitat
D
When all species in the ecosystem have identical ecological niches
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of resource partitioning: Resource partitioning occurs when species in an ecosystem divide resources to reduce competition and coexist. This typically happens when two or more species compete for similar resources in the same habitat.
Analyze the conditions under which resource partitioning is likely to occur: Resource partitioning is driven by competition for limited resources. If resources are unlimited or competition is minimal, there is no need for species to partition resources.
Evaluate the role of ecological niches: Each species has a unique ecological niche, which includes its role in the ecosystem and the resources it uses. Resource partitioning allows species with overlapping niches to coexist by utilizing different aspects of the shared resources.
Consider the scenarios provided in the problem: The first scenario (unlimited resources and minimal competition) does not require resource partitioning. The second scenario (a single species in isolation) also does not involve competition, so resource partitioning is unnecessary. The fourth scenario (identical niches) would lead to direct competition, but resource partitioning typically occurs when niches overlap rather than being identical.
Conclude that resource partitioning is most likely to be observed in the third scenario: When two species compete for similar resources in the same habitat, they may partition resources to reduce competition and coexist.