Due to resource partitioning, zebra relative density changes over time and grass height.
<h3>What is resource partitioning?</h3>
Resource partitioning is the process by which due to natural selection, competing species use different resources and niches.
In the case of African savanna, right after peak rain all the three grazers (zebra, wildebeest, and Thomson’s gazelle) have high density.
After rain in one month relative density of zebras is maximum but it becomes nearly zero after three months due to high density of wildebeest and then increases a little after six months.
The density of zebras is greatest when the grass is tallest and most abundant because of resource partitioning as zebras get the most out of eating tall grass.
Zebras can eat and digest faster taller grasses with many stems.
This gives them an advantage over other grazers in terms of nutrition when the grass is tall.
Plant A would go through photosynthesis quicker than Plant B because it is essential for plants to receive a good amount of sunlight to create food (go through photosynthesis).
In energy partitioning, metabolizable energy less less heat increment (energy lost as heat) gives the net energy. The net energy is further broken down to energy used for production and energy used for maintenance.