Question

Distinguish between intraspecific and interspecific competition. How do they affect species as a form of environmental resistance?

Short answer

Intraspecific competition is competition among the same species for resources, while interspecific competition involves different species competing for the same resources. Environmental resistance refers to factors such as these competitions that limit population growth. The intraspecific competition often leads to reduced growth or reproduction rates for individuals within species and interspecific competition can lead to one species outcompeting another. Both serve as forms of environmental resistance by limiting population growth and contributing to biodiversity.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Intraspecific Competition

Intraspecific competition is a form of competition where individuals of the same species vie for the same resources in an ecosystem (e.g. food or living space). This can lead to reduced growth or reproduction rates for weaker individuals.

Understanding Interspecific Competition

Interspecific competition, on the other hand, is a form of competition in which different types of species compete for the same limited resource. Often, one species will outcompete the other, leading to a decrease in the other species population.

Understanding Environmental Resistance

Environmental resistance is a concept in ecology that refers to the factors that slow down population growth. These factors can be biotic, such as disease or competition, or abiotic, such as water or nutrient availability.

Effect of Intraspecific Competition on Species as Environmental Resistance

The most prevalent effect of intraspecific competition is that species with the highest rates of reproduction and growth under conditions of limited resources tend to win out. This can lead to a form of environmental resistance as the population is regulated due to limited resources and competition within the species.

Effect of Interspecific Competition on Species as Environmental Resistance

As for interspecific competition, it can lead to competitive exclusion, local extinction, or a shift in species’ niches. This also serves as a form of environmental resistance that limits the growth of populations and contributes to biodiversity as different species are forced to adapt to other niches to survive.