If two species are close competitors, and one species is experimentally removed from the community, the remaining species would be expected to ________.
A) change its fundamental niche
B) decline in abundance
C) become the target of specialized parasites
D) expand its realized niche

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When one of two close competitors is removed from an ecosystem, the remaining species often experiences less competition for resources. This reduction in competition allows it to expand its realized niche, meaning it can occupy more habitats or utilize more resources than it could when its competitor was present.

If Two Species Are Close Competitors, and One Species Is