Which of the following is considered a limiting factor that can prevent a population from growing indefinitely?

• A. Unlimited space
• B. Absence of predators
• C. Constant birth rate with no deaths
• D. Availability of food resources

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of a limiting factor: A limiting factor is any resource or condition that restricts the growth, abundance, or distribution of a population in an ecosystem. Examples include food, water, space, and predation.
2. Analyze the options provided: Unlimited space, absence of predators, and constant birth rate with no deaths are all conditions that would promote population growth rather than limit it.
3. Focus on the correct answer: The availability of food resources is a limiting factor because populations require food to survive and reproduce. If food becomes scarce, the population cannot grow indefinitely.
4. Relate this to carrying capacity: The carrying capacity of an environment is the maximum population size that it can sustain based on available resources, such as food. When food is limited, the population size stabilizes or decreases.
5. Conclude the reasoning: Since food availability directly impacts the survival and reproduction of individuals in a population, it is considered a limiting factor that prevents indefinite population growth.