Question

in scenario iv, what is the most likely outcome for two species living in the same place? the two species will both do well because they are so similar. there is no way to tell what would happen. one of the two species will die out or leave the area the two species will begin to interbreed and form a new species.

Explanation:

Based on the principle of competitive exclusion (Gause's law), when two species have identical niches (as in scenario IV where only one niche - represented by the combined area - seems to exist for what was two species), intense competition for limited resources occurs. Over time, one species out - competes the other. This can lead to the less competitive species either going extinct in that area or emigrating to find a new niche. Species do not interbreed to form a new species just because of niche overlap (unless very specific and rare genetic and behavioral conditions are met, which is not indicated here). And it's not that they both do well as resources are limited in a single niche for two competing species. Also, with ecological principles like competitive exclusion, we can predict the likely outcome rather than saying there's no way to tell.

Answer:

One of the two species will die out or leave the area.