What does the competitive exclusion principle state?

The competitive exclusion principle asserts that when two species vie for the same limited resources, one species will ultimately outcompete the other. This results in the decline or local extinction of the less competitive species. This principle is rooted in the idea that when two species compete for identical resources—such as food, space, or light—one will have traits that give it a slight advantage over the other under specific environmental conditions. Over time, this competitive advantage leads to the exclusion of the weaker competitor.

In essence, the competitive exclusion principle clarifies that, in environments with limited resources, only one species can be optimally adapted to thrive, while the other will face challenges that hinder its survival. This principle is foundational in ecology and explains patterns of species distribution and biodiversity within ecosystems.

The incorrect options reflect mistaken understandings of species interactions. For instance, the notion that two species can indefinitely share the same habitat does not acknowledge the resource limitations that drive competition. Similarly, the idea that competing species can coexist in all circumstances overlooks the inevitability of competitive outcomes when resources are finite. Furthermore, species in predator-prey relationships do not necessarily equilibrate as asserted, since these interactions are influenced by complex dynamics that can lead to fluctuations, not stability.