Competition - Processes in Succession
The aggregation of individuals in an area leads to inter specific and intra specific competition. The competition is usually for
- Water, particularly when there is shortage of water;
- Nutrients, particularly when they are in short supply;
- Radiant energy, if one plant grows in the shade of another plant;
- Carbon dioxide;
- Oxygen, and
- Space. Success of a species during competition depends on several features, e.g., strong and efficient root system, capability to trap nutrients, endurance to drought and poor soil aeration, and efficiency of reproduction of the plant.