A species population's size (N) may vary depending on a number of factors including crowding and resource limitation. As N approaches K (carrying capacity) for a certain population, which of the following outcomes is predicted by the logistic growth model?
A) The population growth rate will not change.
B) The population growth rate will approach zero.
C) The population size will increase exponentially.
D) The carrying capacity of the environment will increase.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As a population size (N) approaches the carrying capacity (K) of its environment, the logistic growth model predicts that the population growth rate will slow down and eventually approach zero. This is because resources become scarcer, leading to increased competition and a decrease in the growth rate.

A Species Population's Size (N) May Vary Depending on a Number