Consider two interacting beetle species in an environment which switches between one of two states: state 1, in which species 1 outcompetes species 2; and state 2, in which species 2 outcompetes species 1. The time spent in either state, as well as the degree to which one species outcompetes the other, is roughly the same. Thus, on average, species 1 and 2 are comparable in their competitive abilities. According to Hutchinson's model of coexistence, in which of the scenarios is competitive exclusion most likely to occur?
A) When environments switch every four days on average and competitive exclusion usually takes five days
B) When environments switch every four days on average and competitive exclusion usually takes four weeks
C) When environments switch every four weeks on average and competitive exclusion usually takes five weeks
D) When environments switch every five weeks on average and competitive exclusion usually takes four weeks

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Competitive exclusion is most likely to occur when the environment remains in one state long enough for one species to outcompete the other, as in scenario D where the environment switches every five weeks, allowing enough time for competitive exclusion to occur in four weeks.

Consider Two Interacting Beetle Species in an Environment Which Switches