Abstract
Simple models of growth, nutrient utilization, product formation and inhibitor action are used to show that two populations competing for a single nutrient which is limiting their rates of growth can coexist in an ideal chemostat if at least one of the populations produces an autoinhibitor. Production of a substance that is not autoinhibitory but inhibits instead the competitor population (antagonism) will not allow coexistence but can give a population a chance to exclude its competitor under conditions where it would otherwise be excluded by the competitor. These results show that production of autoinhibitors can play an important role in maintaining the species diversity of microbial ecosystems.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
