Correct option is C
Competition between two species often leads to niche differentiation (also known as resource partitioning) and, over evolutionary timescales, can result in character displacement. Let’s break down each statement:
Niche Differentiation (A)
- When two species compete for the same resources, they may partition the resources by using them in slightly different ways or times.
- This reduces direct competition and allows both species to coexist.
- This is a commonly observed outcome of interspecific competition.
Expansion of Fundamental Niche (B)
- The fundamental niche is the full range of environmental conditions and resources an organism can theoretically use in the absence of competition.
- Competition does not expand the fundamental niche; instead, it may restrict the realized niche if resources are limited.
- Therefore, expansion of the fundamental niche of both species is not a typical outcome of competition.
Expansion of Realized Niche (C)
- The realized niche is the actual niche a species occupies in the presence of competition and other biotic interactions.
- Competition typically reduces or constrains the realized niche, because species must share or partition resources.
- Expansion of the realized niche for both species would not be an outcome of competition; that would more likely occur if a competitor was removed, not when competition is ongoing.
Character Displacement (D)
- Over evolutionary time, species competing for similar resources can evolve differences in traits (e.g., beak size in birds, root depth in plants) that reduce niche overlap.
- This phenomenon is known as character displacement, which helps minimize competition by differentiating the ways each species exploits resources.
- This is another well-documented outcome of prolonged competition.
Hence, the possible outcomes of competition among the given choices are niche differentiation (A) and character displacement (D).
