topic 7 - interspecific competition

Question 1

define competition

Answer 1

• An interaction between two or more individuals consuming, or attempting to consume, a single limiting resource

Question 2

define limiting resource - impacts on b or d? why?

Answer 2

• Use by one individual reduces availability for use by another; and reduction in availability reduces b or increases d (changes equilibrium density or K)

Question 3

define INTRAspecific comp

Answer 3

• Competition between individuals of the same species

Question 4

define INTERspecific comp

Answer 4

• An interaction between two or more individuals of different species that are consuming, or attempting to consume, a single limiting resource

Question 5

what is exploitation competition? is it direct interaction? how are resources divided and how common is it?

Answer 5

• Consumption of a resource by an individual reduces the supply available to another
• No need for direct interaction
• Resources divided more-or-less equally
• Individuals suffer ~equally from shortages
– More common, especially in plants

Question 6

define interference competition. when is it most common? who is it negative for

Answer 6

• Effect of one individual on another is direct, via behavioural interaction
• One individual directly blocks another from access to resource (by behavioral or chemical interaction)
• Especially common when resources are patchy (& can be defended)
○ e.g., water holes, suitable habitat, mate
• Reciprocally negative

Question 7

how can resources be utilized in a competitive interaction

Answer 7

• Two competing species may require different amounts of the same limiting resource
look at utilization rate charts and watch in video