Asymmetric Competition

Pronunciation: /as-sim-et-rik com-pee-ti-shun/

Category: Behavior

Definition

A form of competition where one competitor has a significant advantage over the other, leading to an uneven outcome.

Etymology

From Latin 'asymmetricus', meaning 'not symmetrical'.

Example

In asymmetric competition between a large, dominant male and a smaller, subordinate male, the larger male is likely to win access to resources or mates.

Related Terms

Intrasexual selection
Dominance
Subordination

Usage Notes

Asymmetric competition can lead to the evolution of exaggerated traits in the dominant sex and reduced traits in the subordinate sex.