Scientists Have Hypothesized That Resource Competition May Facilitate Sympatric Speciation

question 36

Multiple Choice

Scientists have hypothesized that resource competition may facilitate sympatric speciation. These graphs illustrate two scenarios: graph A illustrates a normal distribution of both beak size and seed size, while graph B illustrates a normal distribution of beak size but a flat distribution of seed size. Which graph illustrates resource competition?

• A) Graph A illustrates resource competition; different seed sizes have led to the distribution of different beak sizes, so all birds get approximately the same amount of food.
• B) Graph A illustrates resource competition; different beak sizes led to the distribution of different seed sizes, so all birds get approximately the same amount of food.
• C) Graph B illustrates resource competition; because there are equal numbers of seeds available across the size range.
• D) Graph B illustrates resource competition; because there are more medium-beaked birds, there is more competition for medium-sized seeds.

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Definitions:

Price Discrimination

The strategy of selling the same product to different customers at different prices based on their willingness to pay.

Market Segmentation

The process of dividing a broad consumer or business market, normally consisting of existing and potential customers, into subsets of consumers (known as segments) based on some shared characteristics.

Monopoly Power

The market dominance of a single supplier, often characterized by the ability to control prices and exclude competition.

Price Discriminate

The strategy of selling the same product to different customers at different prices based on willingness to pay, market segment, or conditions.