Limiting Factors & Carrying Capacity

Front

What is a limiting factor?

Back

A limiting factor is a resource or condition that limits the growth, abundance, or distribution of an organism or a population in an ecosystem.

Front

What is carrying capacity?

Back

Carrying capacity is the maximum number of individuals of a particular species that an environment can support sustainably over time.

Front

Give an example of a limiting factor in a forest ecosystem.

Back

Grass available is a limiting factor for a rabbit population in a forest ecosystem.

Front

What does the yellow line represent in a population growth graph?

Back

The yellow line represents carrying capacity in a population growth graph.

Front

What is competition in an ecosystem?

Back

Competition is a limiting factor where two or more species or individuals vie for the same resources, affecting their survival.

Front

How can an increase in available food affect an ecosystem?

Back

An increase in available food can increase the carrying capacity of an ecosystem, allowing more individuals to survive.

Front

List some resources that are considered limiting factors.

Back

Food, water, sunlight, shelter, and space are all considered limiting factors.

Front

What happens when a population exceeds its carrying capacity?

Back

When a population exceeds its carrying capacity, it can lead to resource depletion, increased competition, and a decline in population size.

Front

What is the relationship between limiting factors and population growth?

Back

Limiting factors can slow down or stop population growth by restricting access to essential resources.

Front

How does disease act as a limiting factor?

Back

Disease can reduce population size by increasing mortality rates and decreasing reproductive success.