Description: Intraspecific competition refers to the struggle among individuals of the same species for limited resources such as food, space, water, and mates. This phenomenon is fundamental in ecology as it influences population dynamics and species evolution. Competition can manifest in various forms, including direct resource competition, where individuals physically interact, and indirect resource competition, where individuals affect the availability of resources for others without direct interaction. The intensity of this competition can vary depending on population density and environmental conditions. In situations of high competition, individuals may develop adaptations that allow them to access resources more efficiently or avoid competition, which can lead to the diversification of ecological niches. Intraspecific competition is a driver of natural selection, as individuals better adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing their traits to the next generation. This process is essential for understanding the structure and dynamics of biological communities, as well as for the conservation of species, where competition can be a critical factor in their survival.
