Final answer:
When populations exceed the carrying capacity, there can be outbreaks of disease, starvation, and increased competition and conflict.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a population exceeds its carrying capacity, three main things can happen:
- Outbreaks of Disease: Overcrowding can lead to the spread of diseases more easily, as individuals come into closer contact with each other. This can result in increased infection rates and potentially epidemic or pandemic outbreaks.
- Starvation: Lack of sufficient resources, such as food and water, can lead to scarcity and competition. When the carrying capacity is exceeded, there may not be enough resources to support the entire population, resulting in widespread starvation.
- Competition and Conflict: Increased population density can lead to competition for limited resources, such as food, water, and shelter. This competition can escalate into conflicts between individuals or groups, potentially leading to violence and warfare.