If an overlap develops between the ranges of two closely related species, and if the species occupy the same niche in the zone of overlap, what will probably happen in the zone of overlap?
A) A new species will arise by hybridization.
B) Both species will coexist, provided the environment in the zone of overlap is different from that in either individual range.
C) Both species will coexist, provided the environment in the zone of overlap is similar to that of one of the individual ranges.
D) One species will take over most or all of the zone of overlap.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When two closely related species occupy the same niche in a zone of overlap, competitive exclusion is likely to occur, leading to one species dominating the zone of overlap. This is because two species competing for the exact same resources cannot coexist indefinitely; one will outcompete the other.

If an Overlap Develops Between the Ranges of Two Closely