Density-independent

Definition

Density-independent factors are environmental forces that affect the size of a population regardless of the population's density. These factors can lead to sudden and drastic changes in population size.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Density-independent factors include natural disasters like hurricanes, wildfires, and floods.
2. These factors can impact both small and large populations equally.
3. Human activities such as pollution and habitat destruction can also be considered density-independent.
4. Unlike density-dependent factors, they do not become more intense as the population increases.
5. They are often unpredictable and can cause rapid declines or increases in populations.

Review Questions

• What is an example of a density-independent factor?
• How do density-independent factors differ from density-dependent factors?
• Can human activities be considered density-independent? Why or why not?

Related terms

Density-Dependent Factors:

Impact on population size that varies with the population's density, such as competition for resources.

Carrying Capacity: The maximum number of individuals that an environment can sustainably support.

Logistic Growth: A model of population growth that accounts for limiting resources, showing initial exponential growth followed by a plateau.