Limiting Factors in Ecosystems

The video discusses factors that limit population size, focusing on density dependent and independent factors. Density dependent factors, such as predation, competition, and parasites, rely on population density. Density independent factors, like catastrophic events and climate changes, affect populations regardless of size. Limiting factors are categorized as abiotic or biotic, influencing ecosystems differently. The video emphasizes the importance of understanding these factors to maintain ecological balance.

What is a limiting factor in the context of population growth?

• A factor that has no impact on population size

• An environmental factor that affects population size

• A factor that only increases population size

• A factor that only decreases population size

Which of the following is a density-dependent factor?

• Earthquakes

• Predation

• Climate change

• Seasonal cycles

How do parasites affect host populations?

• They can spread more easily in denser populations

• They have no effect on host populations

• They increase the birth rate of hosts

• They decrease the death rate of hosts

What happens to the wolf population when the moose population decreases?

• The wolf population migrates

• The wolf population decreases due to starvation

• The wolf population remains stable

• The wolf population increases

What is the effect of competition on a crowded population?

• It has no effect

• It leads to resource scarcity

• It decreases the death rate

• It increases the birth rate

Which of the following is NOT a density-independent factor?

• Hurricanes

• Competition

• Climate changes

• Tornadoes

How do catastrophic events affect populations?

• They increase population size

• They affect populations regardless of size

• They are density-dependent

• They only affect large populations

What is an example of an abiotic limiting factor?

• Parasites

• Prey

• Water

• Predators

Which of the following is a biotic factor?

• Sunlight

• Pathogens

• Water

• Climate

Why is it important to understand limiting factors?

• To eliminate predators

• To maintain ecological balance

• To reduce competition

• To increase population size