Which of the following is considered a limiting factor that can prevent populations from growing near their maximum rate?

• A. Availability of food resources
• B. Unlimited space
• C. Constant birth rate
• D. Absence of predators

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of a limiting factor: A limiting factor is any environmental condition that restricts the growth, abundance, or distribution of a population within an ecosystem. These factors can be biotic (living) or abiotic (non-living).
2. Analyze the options provided: Evaluate each option to determine whether it can act as a limiting factor. For example, 'Availability of food resources' is a biotic factor that directly impacts population growth, while 'Unlimited space' suggests no restriction, making it unlikely to be a limiting factor.
3. Consider the role of predators: The 'Absence of predators' implies that predation is not limiting the population. However, the presence of predators can act as a limiting factor by controlling population size.
4. Examine the impact of birth rate: A 'Constant birth rate' does not inherently limit population growth unless other factors, such as food availability or space, come into play.
5. Conclude which factor is most likely to limit population growth: Based on the analysis, identify 'Availability of food resources' as the most plausible limiting factor because populations rely on food for survival and reproduction, and its scarcity can prevent growth near the maximum rate.