Two avoid the competitive exclusion principle two similar species live in same area, they may evolve to becomes more different in order to

Options

A. reduce competition
B. increase competition
C. use other species resources
D. drive the other species to extinction

Answer

To answer the question regarding how two similar species can avoid the competitive exclusion principle while living in the same area, we can break down the solution into the following steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Competitive Exclusion Principle**:
- The competitive exclusion principle states that two species competing for the same resources cannot coexist indefinitely. One species will outcompete the other, leading to the extinction of one species or a shift in its niche.

2. **Recognizing the Need for Differentiation**:
- To coexist, similar species must reduce direct competition. This can be achieved by evolving to become more different in their resource use or behavior.

3. **Exploring Resource Partitioning**:
- Resource partitioning is a strategy where species use different resources or the same resource in different ways to minimize competition. This can involve changes in feeding times, foraging patterns, or habitat preferences.

4. **Evolutionary Changes**:
- Over time, species may evolve traits that allow them to exploit different resources or occupy different niches. For example, one species may adapt to feed during the day while the other feeds at night.

5. **Conclusion on Competition**:
- By evolving to become more different, the two species can reduce competition between them. This allows both species to thrive in the same area without one driving the other to extinction.

6. **Final Answer**:
- Therefore, the correct answer to the question is that two similar species may evolve to become more different in order to **reduce competition**.