Question

The principle of competitive exclusion was stated by

• A. C. Darwin
• B. G. F. Gause
• C. MacArthur
• D. Verhulst & Pearl

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The principle of competitive exclusion, also known as Gause's Law, is a fundamental concept in ecology. It states that two species competing for the same limited resources cannot coexist indefinitely. Over time, one species will tend to outcompete and exclude the other from the habitat, leading to its local extinction.

The principle was stated by Georgy Gause. This concept is derived from his experimental work and is a central tenet used to understand species interactions in ecology.

Explanation of Options:

• C. Darwin: Charles Darwin is famous for his theory of evolution and natural selection but not for the competitive exclusion principle.
• G. F. Gause: This is the correct option, as G. F. Gause is credited with formulating the competitive exclusion principle.
• MacArthur: Robert MacArthur is known for his work in ecology and biogeography, particularly the theory of island biogeography, but not for the competitive exclusion principle.
• Verhulst & Pearl: These scientists are known for the logistic growth model in population dynamics, not for the competitive exclusion principle.

Therefore, the correct answer is that the principle of competitive exclusion was stated by G. F. Gause.