In the context of competition between individuals of the same species, the factor that typically allows some individuals to survive over others is being better adapted. Adaptation refers to the genetic, behavioral, and phenotypic changes that enhance an individual's ability to survive and reproduce in its specific environment.
Here's a breakdown of the options:
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Some choose not to compete for resources: While avoiding competition can be a strategy, it doesn't guarantee survival. Individuals that do not compete may still face other forms of mortality or may not thrive in the absence of needed resources.
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Some are better adapted: This is a significant factor. Better-adapted individuals are often more efficient at acquiring resources, avoiding predators, and coping with environmental changes. Adaptations can take many forms—physical traits, behaviors, or physiological processes.
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Some do not need resources: All organisms need resources to survive, whether it's food, water, shelter, or mates. Therefore, this statement is not generally applicable in a competitive context.
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Some are not impacted by rapid changes: While resilience to change can play a role in survival, it often stems from being better adapted to those changes. Individuals that manage to survive rapid environmental shifts typically possess certain adaptive traits that allow them to cope with those changes.
In summary, the primary factor fostering survival in competitive scenarios among individuals of the same species is usually their level of adaptation to their environment.