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Density dependence with time delays can cause populations to be inherently cyclic.

a) True
b) False

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Final answer:

Density dependence with time delays can indeed cause population cycles; this is observed in natural predator-prey relationships and can involve complex interactions beyond simple predation models.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement that density dependence with time delays can cause populations to be inherently cyclic is true. Populations can indeed show cyclic behavior as a result of density-dependent factors, like predation, resource availability, and disease, that are compounded by time delays. An example of this is the well-documented predator-prey cycles observed in snowshoe hares and their predators, such as lynxes. When the hare population becomes too dense, factors such as increased stress leading to lower fecundity can cause a decline in hare numbers, which after a delay, leads to a decline in lynx populations due to reduced food availability. Similarly, when prey populations are low, predator numbers may also drop, leading to less predation pressure and allowing prey numbers to recover, thereby creating a cycle. However, the exact relationship between prey and predator populations can be complex, involving more than just direct predation effects.

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