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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best determines the carrying capacity of an ecosystem?
A
The availability of resources such as food, water, and shelter
B
The genetic diversity of the population
C
The rate of mutation in organisms
D
The migration patterns of neighboring populations
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of carrying capacity: Carrying capacity refers to the maximum number of individuals in a population that an ecosystem can support sustainably over time, based on the availability of resources.
Identify the key factors that influence carrying capacity: These include essential resources such as food, water, shelter, and space, which are necessary for survival and reproduction.
Evaluate the options provided: Consider how each option relates to the ability of an ecosystem to support a population. For example, genetic diversity, mutation rates, and migration patterns may influence population dynamics but are not direct determinants of carrying capacity.
Focus on the availability of resources: Recognize that the availability of food, water, and shelter directly impacts the carrying capacity, as these are the limiting factors that determine how many individuals can be supported.
Conclude that the correct answer is the availability of resources such as food, water, and shelter, as these are the primary factors that determine the carrying capacity of an ecosystem.