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Multiple Choice
What determines the carrying capacity of an environment?
A
The presence of predators in the ecosystem
B
The average temperature of the environment
C
The availability of resources such as food, water, and shelter
D
The genetic diversity of the species in the environment
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of carrying capacity: Carrying capacity refers to the maximum number of individuals of a species that an environment can support sustainably over time without degrading the environment.
Identify the key factors influencing carrying capacity: The availability of resources such as food, water, and shelter are crucial in determining the carrying capacity of an environment.
Consider the role of resource availability: Resources must be sufficient to meet the needs of the population. If resources are limited, the carrying capacity will be lower.
Evaluate other factors: While the presence of predators, average temperature, and genetic diversity can influence population dynamics, they do not directly determine carrying capacity like resource availability does.
Summarize the primary determinant: The availability of essential resources is the primary factor that sets the carrying capacity of an environment, as it directly impacts the ability of the population to survive and reproduce.