Population Ecology Flashcards

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Carrying capacity

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The maximum number of individuals of a particular species that an environment can support. Growth slows as the population nears this capacity.

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Density-dependent limiting factor

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A limiting factor that only affects a population when its density reaches a certain level, such as available living space.

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Density-independent limiting factor

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A limiting factor that affects a population regardless of its size and density, like unusual weather.

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Limiting factor

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Any factor that prevents a population from growing larger, including competition, disease, and natural disasters.

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Population

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A group of individuals of the same species that live in the same area. It is one level of organization of the biosphere.

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Population density

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The number of individuals in a population per unit of area. For example, 50 rabbits/km².