What does competitive exclusion refer to in ecological terms?

Competitive exclusion is a significant ecological principle that describes a scenario where two species that compete for the same resources cannot coexist indefinitely. When two species are vying for identical resources—such as nutrients, light, or space—one species will typically outcompete the other, ultimately leading to the local extinction of the less competitive species. This concept is rooted in the idea that if two species occupy the same niche, the one that is more efficient in utilizing resources will be favored by natural selection, illustrating the "exclusion" aspect of the concept.

This phenomenon underscores the importance of resource availability and environmental conditions in shaping community dynamics. It also provides insight into the intricate balance of ecosystems, where the potential for competition can influence which species thrive in a given habitat. Understanding competitive exclusion helps ecologists predict species distribution and community structure, which are essential for biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management.