Question

Question 12 0 / 3 points According to the concept of resource partitioning, which attribute of a community would tend to lead to lower species richness? a) Low specialization of species b) A broad resource spectrum c) A narrow resource spectrum with high specialization d) Both a and b Hide Feedback Bloom's Category: 2. Understanding Textbook Reference: Concept 19.2 Resource partitioning is theorized to reduce competition and increase species diversity

Answer 1

Answer 12:

Option d - Both (a) and (b)

(a) Low specialization of species
(b) A broad resource spectrum

When species divide a niche to avoid competition for resources, it is called resource partitioning. Resource partitioning is what makes such a diversity of plant and animal species to live in ecosystems and in biomes; like rain forests.

If species are unable to specialize, they will compete for resources leading to lower species richness.
Similarly when a broad spectrum of resources is available, there won't be need of diving the niche or for resource partitioning and this too will lead to lower species richness.