What does the principle of competitive exclusion state?

The principle of competitive exclusion states that two species competing for the same limited resource cannot coexist at constant population values. This means that if two species share the exact same niche and rely on the same resources, one species will typically outcompete the other, leading to the decline or extinction of one species in that environment. This principle is rooted in the idea that resources such as food, space, and light are finite, and when two species compete directly for these resources, there is usually one that is more efficient or better adapted to utilize them. Consequently, the less competitive species will often see its population reduced until it cannot survive in that niche.

This principle is crucial in understanding community dynamics and biodiversity because it highlights the importance of resource partitioning and niche differentiation, where species may evolve different strategies to exploit the resources available in their environment without directly competing for the same resource.