SQA National 5 Biology Practice Exam

Intraspecific competition refers to the competition that occurs between individuals of the same species. This type of competition is significant in ecological studies because it affects population dynamics, resource availability, and ultimately survival and reproduction rates within that species. For instance, if there is limited food, water, or space, individuals within the same species must compete for those resources. The outcomes of intraspecific competition can lead to various adaptations and strategies, as individuals may evolve to utilize different resources or occupy different niches to reduce direct competition.

In contrast, interspecific competition involves competition between different species, which can lead to competitive exclusion or coexistence depending on how the species interact. Competitive exclusion is a principle that suggests two species competing for the same resources cannot coexist at constant population values, while cooperation refers to interactions that benefit both parties involved. Therefore, understanding intraspecific competition is crucial in ecology as it helps explain how species interact and evolve over time in relation to their environments.