Competition Between Organisms
Science: KS3, topic 1.3.16
Competition for Resources
Organisms need resources from both abiotic and biotic parts of an ecosystem to survive and reproduce. But resources are not infinite. Different species and different individuals compete for resources.
Competition between plants
- Plants often compete for water and mineral ions (minerals) from the soil, as well as for light and space.
Competition between animals
- Animals often compete for food, mates and territory.
Test yourself on Competition Between Organisms
Which of these resources do animals compete for in an ecosystem?
Which of these resources do plants not compete for?
A plant cannot get enough water because of competition from other plants nearby. What is most likely to happen to the plant?
A farmer plants young trees very close together in a row. Why might these trees grow more slowly than trees planted further apart?