Competition exclusion principle

The competition exclusion principle states that if two species compete for the exact same limited resources, like food or space, one will eventually outcompete and exclude the other from that niche. Essentially, no two species can occupy the same ecological role indefinitely when resources are limited because competition favors the more efficient or adaptable species. This principle helps explain how different species coexist by occupying distinct niches or resources, reducing direct competition and ensuring biodiversity within ecosystems.