Exploring Limiting Factors in Ecology

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Questions and Answers

What is a limiting factor in ecology?

A limiting factor is any factor that controls the growth of a population.

How do limiting factors determine the carrying capacity of an environment?

Limiting factors, acting separately or together, determine the carrying capacity of an environment for a species.

What is the relationship between limiting factors and natural selection?

Limiting factors produce the pressures of natural selection that are essential for long-term population growth and species survival.

What are density-dependent limiting factors and how do they affect parasite spread?

Density-dependent limiting factors are factors that are influenced by the population density of a species. In the case of parasites, the higher the density of the host population, the easier it is for parasites to spread from one host to another. Signup and view all the answers

Explain how overcrowding can lead to fighting among species.

Overcrowding can lead to fighting among species as a result of competition for limited resources such as food, territory, or mates. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the possible consequences of constant fighting within a species.

Constant fighting within a species can result in stress, which weakens the body's ability to resist disease. It can also lead to injuries or even death. Signup and view all the answers

What are some effects of overcrowding stress in certain species?

Overcrowding stress in certain species can cause females to neglect, kill, or even eat their own offspring. It can also lower birthrates, raise death rates, and increase rates of emigration. Signup and view all the answers