Competitive exclusion, zonation, niches, and biodiversity in the rocky intertidal zone

Teaching overview on the topic of competitive exclusion and zonation in the rocky intertidal zone, using mussel and barnacle zonation as an example. Topics covered include competitive exclusion, dominant competitors, niche theory, intertidal gradients in food, temperature stress, and desiccation stress, and the implications of competition and environmental gradients on biodiversity. Socratic dialogue between Dr. Sarah Gravem and lower-division undergraduate students Linnea and Ella at Oregon State University. Filmed at Fogarty Creek, near Depoe Bay, Oregon. Videography by Blake Brown.