Asymmetry in intraspecific competition in the limpet Cellana tramoserica (sowerby)

Abstract

Most studies of competition have classified interactions simply as interspecific or intraspecific. In doing this, individuals within a species are all assumed to be similar in their competitive ability. Consequently, the importance of variation in competitive ability among conspecific individuals is overlooked. At the Merret Rifle Range, in Williamstown (Victoria), the limpet Cellana tramoserica (Sowerby) occurs in high densities. We examined competitive interactions between limpets of different sizes from this population to test assumptions about competitive abilities among conspecific individuals. The effects of competition between and within size-classes were investigated by manipulating ..