Edit page | Page history | Printable version

Definition

noun

A limiting factor of a population wherein large, dense populations are more strongly affected than small, less crowded ones.

Supplement

Examples of this type of factor:

• food and water supply – large population would require for a higher supply of food and water. Limited supply of available food and water would result in competition
• living space – for instance, the growth of plants is affected by a competition for space. Less space could mean less sunlight, less photosynthesis.
• predation – more prey animals could mean more predators, thus, increased predation
• disease – spread of disease is faster in a dense population than small ones

Compare: density independent limiting factor.
See also: limiting factor.