In models of logistic population growth,
A) the population growth rate slows dramatically as N approaches K.
B) new individuals are added to the population most rapidly when there are few individuals.
C) new individuals are added to the population most rapidly as N approaches K.
D) only density-independent factors affect the rate of population growth.
E) carrying capacity is never reached.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Logistic population growth models predict that as the population size (N) approaches the carrying capacity (K) of the environment, the population growth rate slows down. This is due to density-dependent factors such as competition for resources and increased susceptibility to diseases, which are more influential as the population size increases. This means that option A is correct. Option B is incorrect because new individuals are added to the population at a faster rate when there are more individuals in the population, up to a certain point. Option C is also incorrect because new individuals are not added to the population at the fastest rate as N approaches K; in fact, the growth rate slows down as N approaches K. Option D is incorrect because both density-dependent and density-independent factors can affect population growth rates. Option E is incorrect because carrying capacity is reached in logistic growth models.

In Models of Logistic Population Growth