Intra- and Interspecific Interactions in Low Density Populations in Resource-Rich Habitats

Abstract

Parasites on the gills of marine fish are used to study intra- and interspecific interactions.(...) Evidence is given that most animals species are likely to occur at low densities in resource-rich habitats, and that conclusions based on the study of gill parasites can be applied to them. In particular, a discussion of a diversification equation modelled on the logistic equation for population growth shows that there is a vast number of vacant niches. The general conclusion is that the major problem for most animals is not to avoid competition but to find suitable sites for feeding and mating