Define Carrying Capacity.

Carrying capacity refers to the maximum population size that an environment can sustainably support without causing detrimental impacts on the ecosystem. It is a concept used in ecology to understand the relationship between a population and its environment. The carrying capacity is determined by factors such as available resources (like food, water, and shelter), environmental conditions (such as climate and habitat quality), and interactions with other species.

When a population exceeds the carrying capacity of its environment, resource depletion, competition for space and food, increased predation, and disease outbreaks can occur, leading to a decline in population size or quality of life for individuals. On the other hand, populations below the carrying capacity may experience growth until the capacity is reached.

Understanding carrying capacity is important for managing and conserving natural resources and biodiversity. It helps in assessing the sustainability of human activities, such as agriculture, fishing, and urban development, and guides efforts to maintain ecosystems within their ecological limits for long-term stability and resilience. Adjusting human activities to align with carrying capacity can promote sustainable practices and reduce environmental degradation.