Under which of the following conditions is the carrying capacity (K) of a population most likely to remain constant over time?

• A. When there is a sudden introduction of new predators
• B. When the population experiences rapid evolutionary changes
• C. When there are frequent natural disasters affecting the habitat
• D. When environmental conditions and resource availability remain stable

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of carrying capacity (K): Carrying capacity refers to the maximum number of individuals in a population that an environment can sustain indefinitely, given the availability of resources such as food, water, and shelter, as well as environmental conditions.
2. Analyze the factors that influence carrying capacity: Carrying capacity is affected by changes in resource availability, environmental conditions, predation, competition, and other ecological factors. Stability in these factors is key to maintaining a constant carrying capacity.
3. Evaluate the impact of sudden introduction of new predators: New predators can disrupt the population dynamics by increasing mortality rates, which may lower the carrying capacity or cause fluctuations in population size.
4. Consider the effects of rapid evolutionary changes: Rapid evolutionary changes can alter traits within the population, such as resource use or reproductive strategies, potentially leading to shifts in carrying capacity over time.
5. Assess the role of stable environmental conditions and resource availability: When environmental conditions and resource availability remain stable, the factors influencing carrying capacity are consistent, allowing the population to remain at or near its carrying capacity without significant fluctuations.