Question

Which statement describes a finding of Wilson and Tilman's studies of the grass Schizachyrium scoparium?

1) The plants compete only for aboveground resources.
2) The plants compete only for belowground resources.
3) The plants compete for both aboveground and belowground resources, and competition is most intense for whichever resources are more scarce.
4) The plants compete for both aboveground and belowground resources, and competition is most intense for whichever resources are more abundant.

Answer 1

Wilson and Tilman's research on Schizachyrium scoparium found that the plants compete for both aboveground and belowground resources, and competition intensifies when resources are scarce.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer to the question about Wilson and Tilman's studies on Schizachyrium scoparium is that the plants compete for both aboveground and belowground resources, and competition is most intense for whichever resources are more scarce.

Intraspecific competition in plants, such as that observed with Schizachyrium scoparium, involves the struggle for essential resources like water, sunlight, nutrients, and space to grow. The studies conducted by Wilson and Tilman revealed that these grasses engage in competition not only for resources found above the soil, like light and space, but also for those found below, such as water and nutrients. This competition is influenced by the availability of these resources, hence, it is more intense where resources are scarcer. This phenomenon aligns with the broader concept that plants, similar to animals, will compete more fiercely for resources that limit their growth and survival.