How does competition limit the number of individuals in a population?

• A. By reducing the reproductive success of individuals
• B. By eliminating the need for adaptation
• C. By promoting unlimited growth of the population
• D. By increasing the availability of resources

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of competition in ecology: Competition occurs when individuals or species vie for the same resources in an ecosystem, such as food, space, or mates.
2. Recognize that competition can be intraspecific (within the same species) or interspecific (between different species). Both types can limit population growth.
3. Consider how competition affects reproductive success: When resources are limited, individuals may have less access to food or mates, which can reduce their ability to reproduce successfully.
4. Analyze the options given: The correct answer should reflect how competition directly impacts the population size by affecting individual reproductive success.
5. Conclude that competition limits population size by reducing the reproductive success of individuals, as they have to compete for limited resources, which can lead to fewer offspring being produced.