Which of the following can contribute to density-dependent regulation of populations?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Intraspecific competition for nutrients is a density-dependent factor as it occurs when individuals of the same species compete for limiting resources such as food, water, and shelter. As the population density increases, the competition for resources also increases, leading to a decrease in growth and survival rates which can regulate the population size.

Other choices (A, C, D, and E) are not density-dependent factors as they do not directly depend on the population density to regulate its size. For example, earthquakes, floods, and weather catastrophes can affect populations regardless of their size or density, while the removal of toxic waste by decomposers is a density-independent factor as it works regardless of the population size or density.

Which of the Following Can Contribute to Density-Dependent Regulation of Populations