Question

Which explanation best defines density-dependent growth regulation?

a) Factors limiting population growth, such as predation and disease, are independent of the population size.
b) Population growth is regulated by intrinsic factors, unrelated to the density of the population.
c) Growth factors that depend on the size of the population, like competition for resources and predation, influence population regulation.
d) The growth of the population is solely controlled by external environmental factors.

Answer 1

Density-dependent growth regulation is controlled by biotic factors such as predation, competition, and disease, which increase mortality or lower reproduction as population density increases. This type of regulation is crucial for wildlife and conservation biologists to understand for effective population management.

Step-by-step explanation:

Density-dependent growth regulation refers to the regulation of population growth by factors that are influenced by the density of the population. Among the most common density-dependent factors are biological in nature (biotic), including predation, inter- and intraspecific competition, accumulation of waste, and diseases such as those caused by parasites. These factors lead to increased mortality or decreased birth rates as the population becomes denser. For example, high density may lead to more competition for resources, lowering reproductive rates and thus slowing population growth. Conversely, a low prey density might increase the mortality rate of predators due to the difficulty in locating food sources.

Unlike density-dependent regulation, density-independent factors, such as forest fires and volcanic eruptions, impact a population regardless of its density. These usually involve abiotic factors. Understanding density-dependent regulation is crucial for wildlife and conservation biologists to manage populations effectively and prevent overpopulation or extinction.