Population Ecology

Question 1

Define the term carrying capacity.

Answer 1

The maximum capacity of an ecosystem or defined area to hold a particular species as determined by availability of space, shelter, predation and resources.

Question 2

How do biotic and abiotic factors limit carrying capacity?

Answer 2

-Space limits how many organisms can physically fit into an area.
-Shelter limits how many can survive in the area.
-Availability of food and water limits how many can survive
-Other species limit the population size through predation

Question 3

What is the population growth and change formula?

Answer 3

(B+I)-(D+E)

Question 4

What is the difference in appearance of an exponential growth J-curve and logistic growth S-curve graph?

Answer 4

Exponential growth starts steady and increases rapidly whereas a logistic growth will start flat, increase and then flatten again at a maximum.