Final answer:
Natural populations indeed change under the influence of both biotic and abiotic factors. These factors affect population dynamics, ecosystem distribution, and biodiversity. Understanding these interactions is crucial for effective conservation efforts.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yes, natural populations can change under pressure from both changing biotic and abiotic factors. These factors can greatly influence the growth and death rates of populations, as well as their distribution and behavior. In the context of biogeography, for instance, varying abiotic factors like temperature and rainfall influence which plant and animal communities can thrive in particular areas. As you move from one latitude or elevation to another, these communities will change in response to the abiotic conditions.
Population dynamics are complex and are affected not only by logistic growth and carrying capacity but also by interactions between both biotic and abiotic factors. Populations respond to environmental stressors such as changes in temperature, precipitation, and human activities like logging and grazing. These factors can alter habitat quality and consequently affect population growth.
An ecosystem’s resilience and the biodiversity within it are constantly being tested by various pressures. In aquatic ecosystems, factors like saltiness, sunlight, and temperature, in conjunction with biotic interactions, define the ecosystem. Global climate change is an example of a significant stressor that is modifying ecosystems, leading to a rise in novel ecosystems with mixes of native and non-native species. Managers and ecologists work to understand these complex interactions to aid in conservation efforts and support biodiversity.