Question

how is it possible for two species that fill the same niche to successfully coexist in an ecosystem?
a. they constantly compete, so neither thrives.
b. they must have different population cycles.
c. they adapt to have slightly different diets.
d. they cannot coexist, so one eventually dies off.

Explanation:

According to the competitive exclusion principle, two species cannot occupy the exact same niche. If they do, they will compete. But if they adapt to have slightly different diets (resource partitioning), they can coexist. Option A: Constant competition with neither thriving is not a way of successful coexistence. Option B: Different population cycles don't directly address niche - related coexistence. Option D: The statement that they cannot coexist is incorrect as resource partitioning (like different diets) can allow coexistence.

Answer:

C. They adapt to have slightly different diets.