To analyze the given statements, let's break them down concerning Gause's competitive exclusion principle:
1. Gause's Competitive Exclusion Principle: This principle posits that two species that compete for the exact same resources cannot stably coexist. One will outcompete and exclude the other in a stable situation.
Examining the statements:
Statement I: It claims that two closely related species competing for different resources cannot coexist indefinitely. This misinterprets Gause's principle since species competing for different, not the same, resources have a chance to co-exist, potentially through niche differentiation or resource partitioning. Thus, Statement I is false.
Statement II: It correctly indicates that during competition, if resources are limiting, the inferior species might be eliminated. This interpretation aligns with Gause's principle. Thus, Statement II is true.
Based on this analysis, the correct answer is: Statement I is false but Statement II is true.