Use an example to describe how resource scarcity, competition, and survival are connected. Be sure to write in complete sentences and define each term.
Resource scarcity, competition, and survival are interconnected concepts that often influence each other within various ecological systems.
For instance, let's consider a pride of lions living in an African savannah. In this scenario, resources refer to the necessities required for the lions to survive, such as food (prey animals), water, and shelter. Scarcity refers to a limited availability of these resources, which could occur due to factors like droughts or a decrease in prey population. Competition arises when the resource availability becomes limited, and different individuals or groups desire the same resources.
In this case, resource scarcity occurs when a drought causes a significant decrease in the water supply and vegetation, leading to a reduced number of prey animals. Since the pride of lions relies on these prey animals for survival, the scarcity of food resources becomes apparent. With fewer prey available, competition among the lions intensifies as they struggle to obtain enough food to survive.
The competition amongst the lions can be observed through various behaviors such as territorial disputes, fighting over prey, or exclusion of certain individuals from hunting opportunities. This competition is driven by the necessity to secure enough resources to ensure the survival and well-being of each lion within the pride.
Furthermore, survival is directly linked to competition and resource scarcity. Lions that are successful in obtaining sufficient resources through competition, such as hunting and securing enough food, have a better chance of survival. These well-fed lions will be healthier, stronger, and more likely to reproduce, passing on their genes to future generations.
On the other hand, lions that fail to acquire enough resources due to intense competition or resource scarcity face higher risks of malnutrition, starvation, and weakened immunity. As a result, their chances of survival diminish, making it more challenging for them to reproduce and maintain the pride's future existence.
In summary, resource scarcity triggers competition among organisms striving to acquire the limited resources necessary for survival. Survival and reproductive success then become determined by an individual's ability to compete effectively and secure enough resources in times of scarcity. This interconnected relationship is a fundamental aspect of the natural world, where organisms must adapt and navigate challenges to ensure their continued existence.