Resource partitioning

Pronunciation
/rɪˈsɔːrs pɑːrˈtɪʃənɪŋ/
Category
Behavior
Singular
Resource partitioning
Plural
Resource partitioning

Definition

The division of resources by species to minimize competition and maximize resource use.

Etymology

From Latin 'pars', meaning 'part', and 'partitio', meaning 'to divide'.

Example

Resource partitioning is observed in many insect species, where different species of insects utilize different parts of a plant or prey item.

Related Terms

  • Competition
  • Niche
  • Species coexistence