Competition on a Divided and Ephemeral Resource: A Simulation Model

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Abstract
A simulation model is presented of competition on a divided and ephemeral resource. Coexistence between 2 spp. can be extended by dividing the resource into more and smaller breeding sites. Aggregation of the superior competitor also promotes coexistence, and can lead to an equilibrium between the 2 spp. contagion is strong enough. If the degree of aggregation is allowed to vary with density in a realistic way, equilibrium is nearly always obtained. These results may explain the high species diversity commonly observed on divided resources.