Use Inequalities Generated by the Lotka-Volterra Competition Model to Determine $\alpha$

question 63

Essay

Use inequalities generated by the Lotka-Volterra competition model to determine whether two species of Paramecium (P. caudatum is "species 1" and P. aurelia is "species 2") will coexist or drive each other to extinction in the three scenarios below. In these examples, N₁ = N₂, and K₁ = K₂ = 50.
Scenario 1: Determine the outcome of the competitive interaction between P. caudatum and P. aurelia if $\alpha$ = 0.3, and $\beta$ = 0.6.
Scenario 2: Determine the outcome of the competitive interaction between P. caudatum and P. aurelia if $\alpha$ = 1.5, and $\beta$ = 0.6.
Based on conditions in scenario 2, answer the following questions:
a) What does K₁/K₂ equal?
b) Is $\alpha$ > or < K₁/K₂?
c) Is $\beta$ > or < K₁/K₂?

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Definitions:

Recombinant Chromosomes

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Sexual Transmission

The spread of diseases or pathogens through sexual contact, involving the exchange of bodily fluids or direct physical contact.

Red-Collared Widowbirds

A species of bird known for the males’ long tail feathers and bright red collar used to attract females during mating season.

Honest Signal

A trait that provides accurate information to other organisms about an individual's genetic quality or fitness.