Competitive interactions

Definition

Competitive interactions in microbiology involve different microorganisms vying for the same resources such as nutrients, space, and energy within their habitat. These interactions can affect the population dynamics and ecological balance of microbial communities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Competitive interactions can lead to the exclusion of one species by another due to resource limitation.
2. Bacteriocins are toxins produced by bacteria to inhibit the growth of closely related bacterial strains.
3. In prokaryotic diversity, competitive interactions help maintain balanced ecosystems by preventing any single species from dominating.
4. Antibiotic production is a form of competitive interaction where microbes produce substances that inhibit or kill competitors.
5. Biofilms are structured communities of microorganisms that exhibit competitive interactions for nutrients and space.

Review Questions

• What role do bacteriocins play in competitive interactions among prokaryotes?
• How can antibiotic production be considered a form of competitive interaction?
• Why are competitive interactions important in maintaining microbial diversity?

Related terms

Symbiosis: A close relationship between two or more different species, often benefiting at least one.

Mutualism: A type of symbiotic relationship where both organisms involved benefit.

Biofilm: A community of microorganisms living within a shared mass of secreted slime adhering to surfaces.