[Competitive intransitivity among species in biotic communities]

Contemporary state of the competitive intransitivity hypothesis is considered. Intransitive competition among species occurs when, for example, species A outcompetes species B, B outcompetes C, and C out-competes A (sometimes written as A > B > C > A). In the first part of the article, a summary of the studies of competitive intransitivity is given. Examples of really existing intransitive loops are discussed, as well as simulation models that provide a theoretical explanation for these processes. Pro hac vice, sufficient potential diversity of community, species interactions carried out in relatively stable limited space that can be reclaimed, and a penalty for the acquisition of competitive ability are prerequisite. In the second part, the hypothesis of competitive intransitivity is compared with neutral theory and niche theory. The results are believed to make some generalizations possible which could stimulate deeper understanding of the species coexistence phenomenon.