What is the term for the struggle between organisms to survive in a habitat with limited resources?

The term for the struggle between organisms to survive in a habitat with limited resources is competition. This concept is fundamental in ecology and refers to the interaction between organisms as they seek to obtain essential resources such as food, water, and shelter. When resources in an environment are scarce, individuals of the same species or different species vie for these limited resources, which can lead to various evolutionary adaptations.

In essence, competition can impact population dynamics by influencing survival, reproduction rates, and even the distribution of species within a habitat. For instance, in a densely populated area with limited food supplies, those organisms that are better adapted to acquiring food will have a higher chance of survival and reproduction, while others may struggle.

The other terms, such as cooperation, symbiosis, and collaboration, refer to different types of interactions among organisms that do not involve a struggle for survival over limited resources. Cooperation and collaboration often denote mutually beneficial relationships, while symbiosis includes various forms of close interactions between species, which may or may not involve competition.