Biology 5.2 Factors Affecting Population Growth

Front

What happens if a population exceeds the carrying capacity of its environment?

Back

The death rate may rise.

Front

What determines the carrying capacity of an environment for a species?

Back

Limiting factors.

Front

What are density dependent limiting factors?

Back

Limiting factors that operate strongly when the number of organisms per unit area is higher.

Front

Which population is least likely to be affected by density dependent limiting factors?

Back

A small, scattered population.

Front

What are density independent limiting factors?

Back

Limiting factors that affect all populations regardless of population size and density.

Front

Define carrying capacity.

Back

The maximum number of individuals of a species that an environment can support sustainably.

Front

Give an example of a density dependent limiting factor.

Back

Food availability, disease, and competition.

Front

Give an example of a density independent limiting factor.

Back

Natural disasters, climate changes, and human activities.

Front

What is the relationship between birth rate and carrying capacity?

Back

As a population approaches carrying capacity, the birth rate may decline.

Front

How do limiting factors affect population growth?

Back

They can restrict the growth of a population by increasing death rates or decreasing birth rates.