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Question #46607
The Question
Two closely related insectivorous bird species initially occupy the same forest canopy, exhibiting a severe (-/-) interaction due to identical dietary requirements. Over evolutionary time, they develop distinct foraging patterns—one feeding exclusively on the outer canopy and the other on the inner branches. Which of the following statements regarding this ecological transition is INCORRECT?
Options
- A.
This phenomenon exemplifies resource partitioning, a mechanism that promotes coexistence rather than competitive exclusion.
- B.
The evolutionary divergence in their foraging behavior to minimize niche overlap is an example of character displacement.
- C.
By restricting their foraging zones, both species have expanded their realized niches to maximize resource utilization.
- D.
This behavioral shift prevents the elimination of the competitively inferior species as predicted by Gause’s principle under limiting resources.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Regulatory_Failure
Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.
Concepts Behind This Question
Mutualism|Obligate Symbiont|Extinction Driver
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students frequently confuse 'Competitive Release' (where a realized niche expands after a competitor is removed) with 'Resource Partitioning' (where species restrict their realized niches to minimize overlap and coexist).
The trap relies on the intuitive but false assumption that 'maximizing resource utilization' equates to 'expanding' the niche, whereas coexistence actually requires niche restriction.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Organisms and Populations - Class 12 |
| Concept | Biotic Interactions - Positive/Negative sign matrix |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |