Carrying Capacity

Front

What is carrying capacity?

Back

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

Front

What does carrying capacity represent in an ecosystem?

Back

It represents the balance between the resources available and the population size.

Front

What factors affect carrying capacity?

Back

Both biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) factors.

Front

What is a limiting factor?

Back

A resource or condition that limits the growth, abundance, or distribution of a population.

Front

Give an example of a biotic limiting factor.

Back

Presence of predators.

Front

Give an example of an abiotic limiting factor.

Back

Availability of water.

Front

How does disease affect carrying capacity?

Back

Diseases can reduce the population size, thus affecting the carrying capacity.

Front

What happens to a population when it exceeds its carrying capacity?

Back

The population will likely decrease due to resource depletion.

Front

What is the relationship between carrying capacity and population dynamics?

Back

Carrying capacity influences population growth rates and stability.

Front

How can human activities impact carrying capacity?

Back

Human activities can alter habitats, reduce resources, and introduce pollutants.