Q

QuestionAnatomy and Physiology

Resource partitioning is a mechanism that allows similar species to coexist in the same habitat by dividing up resources, such as food or space, in a way that reduces competition. This can be achieved through differences in diet, foraging strategy, activity period, or spatial distribution.

Let's examine each of the provided options to determine which one best describes resource partitioning: A. "Superior species enjoy success because of competitive exclusion." This statement is related to the concept of competitive exclusion, which is the opposite of resource partitioning. Competitive exclusion occurs when one species outcompetes another for a limiting resource, leading to the extinction of the weaker species. B. "Similar species can only coexist if their niches are completely different." This statement is partially correct, as similar species can coexist if their niches are somewhat different, not necessarily completely different. C. "Coevolution between two species means they can always share the same niche." This statement is incorrect, as coevolution refers to the evolutionary changes that occur in two or more species as they interact with each other. It does not guarantee that species can share the same niche without competition. D. "Similar species can coexist because of slight differences in each one's niche." This statement best describes resource partitioning, as it highlights how slight differences in resource utilization among similar species can reduce competition and enable coexistence.