Researchers monitored two plant species, M and N, growing in the same grassland plots. Both species need light, water and mineral ions. The mean number of each species in 1 m² quadrats was recorded once each year.
| Year | Mean number of species M per 1 m² quadrat | Mean number of species N per 1 m² quadrat |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 8 | 32 |
| 2 | 18 | 21 |
| 3 | 30 | 12 |
Explain how the data support the conclusion that species M outcompeted species N.
Species M was removed at the end of year 3. Suggest what would probably happen to the number of species N during the following year. Explain your answer.
82 exam-style questions on AQA GCSE Biology 7.1 Adaptations, interdependence and competition, covering 7.1.1 Communities, 7.1.2 Abiotic factors, 7.1.3 Biotic factors, and 7.1.4 Adaptations. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.