Question

What type of interaction exists between two individuals in which one of them prevents the other from utilizing the particularly limited resource of an ecosystem?
A) Predation
B) Commensalism
C) Interspecific competition
D) Mutualism
E) Parasitism

Answer 1

In an ecosystem there exists a continuous interaction between the components of the ecosystem that is biotic and abiotic. There also exists an interaction between the organisms which is either beneficial, harmful or has no effect on one or both. These interactions help in establishing an equilibrium in the ecosystem.

Complete answer:
The ecosystem has both the biotic and abiotic components which interact with one another. The abiotic components include soil, temperature, water availability etc. The biotic components are the living organisms which include plants, microbes and animals. The plants are eaten up by the animals. The animals depend on other animals for food, mate, space and other resources. There exists interspecific competition between two organisms in which they compete for the resources, space and prevent the other from utilising the resources. This type of competition occurs mainly for space. In this, the strong individual outnumbers the other. For example, the competition between fox and tiger for prey.

The other types of interaction are-
Predation- In this one organism kills the other for food. The latter is called prey. Example Deer is the prey of the tiger.
Commensalism-In this one organism is benefited and the other remains unaffected. For example- small fish live with the bigger fish.
Mutualism-In this type of interaction, both organisms are benefited. One provides food and the other provides safety, protection. Example Rhizobium bacteria in leguminous roots.
Parasitism- It is a type of negative interaction in which one organism is benefited at the cost of others. For example leeches sucks the blood of animals.

Therefore the correct answer is option (C).

Note: When competition exists between the individuals of the same species for food, a mate is called intraspecific competition. Interspecific competition is important to maintain the population dynamics. This type of interaction affects the other types of interaction. It helps in maintaining the equilibrium in the system.