Final Answer:
Microbial antagonism, also known as competitive exclusion, is a phenomenon where beneficial microorganisms in a host organism compete with harmful pathogens for resources, limiting the establishment and growth of the latter.
Step-by-step explanation:
Microbial antagonism is a crucial aspect of the host's defense mechanisms against potential pathogens. In this process, the host's normal microbial flora, composed of beneficial microorganisms, competes with harmful pathogens for essential resources such as nutrients and attachment sites.
The presence of these beneficial microorganisms prevents the colonization and proliferation of potential pathogens, thereby excluding them from establishing a harmful presence in the host. This competition for resources limits the growth and survival of pathogenic microorganisms, contributing to the overall health and balance of the host's microbiota.
Microbial antagonism or competitive exclusion is the competition between beneficial microorganisms and harmful pathogens in a host organism.