What does the Competitive Exclusion Principle state?

The Competitive Exclusion Principle asserts that no two species can occupy the same ecological niche in the same habitat simultaneously. This principle is based on the idea that when two species compete for the same resources, such as food, space, or light, one species will inevitably outcompete the other. The victorious species will thrive while the other may be driven to extinction or forced to relocate to a different habitat where it can establish itself without direct competition.

Understanding this principle is essential for ecological studies, as it highlights the importance of resource availability and the dynamics of species interactions within ecosystems. The concept emphasizes that niches must be differentiated to allow for coexistence, reflecting the necessity for species to adapt to their specific roles within their environment.