What would be the best explanation for the observation that the range of a species of lacewings has expanded following the removal of a competitor?
A) The absence of the competitor caused the species to undergo character displacement.
B) The presence of the competitor had caused the species to undergo character displacement.
C) In the presence of the competitor, the realized niche of the species had been larger than its fundamental niche.
D) In the presence of the competitor, the realized niche of the species had been smaller than its fundamental niche.
E) Consumers may influence the outcome of competition.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The presence of the competitor had limited the range of the lacewing species to its realized niche, which was smaller than its fundamental niche. Removal of the competitor allowed the lacewing species to expand its range to its full potential.

What Would Be the Best Explanation for the Observation That