If a superior competitor is removed from the area, there is always an increased population of the otherwise exploited species. This phenomenon is called

Options

A. Competitive inclusion
B. Competitive release
C. Gause's principle
D. Resource portioning

Answer

To solve the question, we need to identify the phenomenon that occurs when a superior competitor is removed from an area, leading to an increase in the population of an otherwise exploited species. Let's break down the solution step by step:

### Step 1: Understand the Context
We are given a scenario where a superior competitor is removed from an ecosystem. This means that there were two species competing for the same resources, and one was more successful than the other.

**Hint:** Consider what happens to species populations when competition is removed.

### Step 2: Define Key Terms
- **Superior Competitor:** This is the species that is better adapted to the environment and can outcompete others for resources.
- **Exploited Species:** This is the species that is less competitive and struggles to thrive in the presence of the superior competitor.

**Hint:** Think about how competition affects the survival and reproduction of species.

### Step 3: Analyze the Effects of Removal
When the superior competitor is removed, the exploited species no longer faces the same level of competition. This allows the exploited species to access more resources, leading to an increase in its population.

**Hint:** Reflect on what happens to resource availability when competition is eliminated.

### Step 4: Identify the Phenomenon
The increase in the population of the exploited species due to the removal of the superior competitor is known as **competitive release**. This term describes the process where a species that was previously limited by competition can now thrive when that competition is removed.

**Hint:** Recall the terminology related to competition and species interactions.

### Step 5: Conclusion
Based on the understanding of the terms and the effects of competition, we conclude that the phenomenon described in the question is called **competitive release**.

**Final Answer:** B. Competitive release