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Carrying Capacity




Carrying capacity is therefore the largest size of a Density -dependent population for which the population is at equilibrium (population size neither increases nor decreases). A factor that keeps population size at equilibrium is known as a Regulating Factor .

Below carrying capacity, populations will tend to increase, while above, they will tend to decrease. Population size decreases above carrying capacity due to a range of factors depending on the Species concerned, but can include insufficient space, Food Supply , or Sunlight . The carrying capacity of an Environment will vary for different species in different Habitats , and can change over time due to a variety of factors including trends in food availability, environmental conditions and space.

It is also possible for a species to pass its carrier capacity, in which case the population can drastically fall as shortages in food and Water take effect. This is often considered more devastating for a population as it produces Stress for the entire species, and populations can fall far below the carrier capacity.