Answer to Question #197546 in Biology for Tanya Moolchand

Question

Explain how competition between two species leads to character displacement and ecological exclusion by giving an example.

Answer 1

Two competing species must differ in their respective ecological niche to inhabit a stable environment. Lack of differentiation between species will eliminate or exclude one of the species through competition. As result, natural selection favours those organisms that develop modifications related to increased survival rate. Darwin's finches on the Galapagos Islands are examples of character displacement. In particular,  Geospiza fortis and Geospiza fulginosa inhabit two different islands and are characterized by large body mass. In addition, both species inhabit another island and have lower body mass. This shift in size allows the birds to feed on smaller seeds, avoiding competition.