Question

Two different species cannot live for long duration in the same niche or habitat. This law is called
a. Allen’s
b. Gloger rule
c. Competitive exclusion principle
d. Weismann’s theory

Answer 1

Let us first consider why it is not possible for different species to live in the same niche or habitat. It is because species living in the same niches will have identical needs. Thus they have to fight or compete for the exact same resources. This can affect the lives as the competition increases the other one gets killed by the stronger species.

Complete answer:

Allen’s theory: He stated in this theory that animals adapted to cold climates have shorter limbs and bodily appendages than animals adapted to warm climates.

Gloger rule: The theory states it in such a way that in a geographical rule which says within a species of endotherms the heavily pigmented forms tend to be found in more humid environments like near the equator.

Competitive exclusion principle: This principle which is also famously known as the Gause’s law states that two species competing for the same yet limited resources will not be able to coexist at a constant population value.

Weismann’s theory: This theory states that germ plasm, which is independent from all other cells of the body, is the essential element of germ cells (eggs and sperm) and it is material that is hereditary that is passed from generation to generation.

Hence, the correct answer is option (C).

Note: The three potential outcomes will result from strong interspecific competition: competitive exclusion, local extinction and niche differentiation. Competitive exclusion occurs when one species outcompetes another in a part of its habitat so well that the second species is excluded from that part.