Which of the following factors is expected to reduce competition among individuals of different species?

• A. Introduction of an invasive competitor
• B. Increased niche overlap
• C. Decreased habitat heterogeneity
• D. Resource partitioning

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of competition: Competition occurs when individuals or species vie for the same limited resources, such as food, space, or mates. Reducing competition often involves mechanisms that allow species to coexist by minimizing direct resource overlap.
2. Define resource partitioning: Resource partitioning is a process where species evolve or adapt to use different resources or utilize the same resources in different ways, times, or places. This reduces direct competition and allows species to coexist more effectively.
3. Analyze the options: Evaluate each factor in the context of competition. For example, the introduction of an invasive competitor typically increases competition, increased niche overlap intensifies competition, and decreased habitat heterogeneity reduces available niches, leading to more competition.
4. Focus on resource partitioning: Resource partitioning reduces competition by allowing species to specialize in different aspects of the environment, such as feeding on different prey, occupying different microhabitats, or being active at different times of the day.
5. Conclude that resource partitioning is the correct answer: It is the only factor listed that actively reduces competition among individuals of different species by promoting coexistence through differentiation in resource use.