In the diagram below, the population growth rate begins to decline after reaching the inflection point most likely because
A)a new keystone predator has been introduced to the ecosystem.
B)the ecosystem's limited resources begin to have an impact on the population.
C)the species in the ecosystem evolve from being K-selected to being r-selected.
D)a catastrophic event, such as a flood or earthquake, disrupts the ecosystem.

Question

In the diagram below, the population growth rate begins to decline after reaching the inflection point most likely because 
A)a new keystone predator has been introduced to the ecosystem. 
B)the ecosystem's limited resources begin to have an impact on the population. 
C)the species in the ecosystem evolve from being K-selected to being r-selected. 
D)a catastrophic event, such as a flood or earthquake, disrupts the ecosystem.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The population growth rate begins to decline after reaching the inflection point because the ecosystem's limited resources begin to have an impact on the population. This means that as the population continues to grow, there are not enough resources to support all individuals, leading to decreased reproductive rates and increased mortality rates. This results in a decrease in the population growth rate. Option A is incorrect because introducing a new predator would cause the population growth rate to decline immediately, not gradually. Option C is incorrect because a change in reproductive strategy from K-selected to r-selected would not cause a gradual decline in the population growth rate. Option D is incorrect because a catastrophic event would cause an abrupt decline in the population, not a gradual decline.

In the Diagram Below, the Population Growth Rate Begins to Decline