EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -In the standard ecological algebra as illustrated in the simplified Verhulst model of population dynamics, carrying capacity is represented by the constant K: dN/dt, the derivative of N with respect to time t, is the rate of change in population with time.

Detailed explanation-2: -Carrying capacity (K) is the number of individuals the environment can support indefinitely, given fluctuations in resources in the environment. Maximum sustainable yield (MSY).

Detailed explanation-3: -On this graph, carrying capacity is marked by the line K. This carrying capacity is the population size that a certain environment can sustain, or carry. The value of K will vary depending on the species and resources available in the habitat.

Detailed explanation-4: -Carrying capacity can be defined as a species’ average population size in a particular habitat. The species population size is limited by environmental factors like adequate food, shelter, water, and mates.

Detailed explanation-5: -The term ‘(K-N)/K’ in the equation for logistic population growth represents the environmental resistance, where K is the carrying capacity and N is the number of individuals in a population over time.