In theory, when two species compete for the same resources, ________ will result.

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Competitive exclusion occurs when two species compete for the exact same resources and one species ultimately outcompetes and eliminates the other from the area. This is a common phenomenon in nature and is a result of the limited availability of resources in ecosystems. Coexistence between two species competing for the same resources is also possible but requires niche differentiation, where each species evolves to use slightly different resources or occupy slightly different habitats in order to reduce direct competition. Initial competition followed by mutualism or parasitism may occur between species that initially compete but then form relationships where they benefit from or exploit each other, but this is not a guaranteed or typical outcome of interspecific competition.

In Theory, When Two Species Compete for the Same Resources