When a population grows larger than its carrying capacity, resources such as food, water, and shelter become limited. This can lead to increased competition for resources, which can result in food shortages, increased disease, and higher mortality rates. Additionally, the environment may become degraded due to overuse, leading to a decrease in the overall health of the population.
In response to these challenges, the population may experience a decline in growth or even a decrease in numbers as individuals struggle to survive. This can lead to a decrease in reproductive rates and an increase in emigration as individuals seek out new areas with more available resources.
Overall, exceeding the carrying capacity can have negative consequences for the population, ultimately leading to a decrease in population size or a decline in overall health and well-being.
what happens to a population when it grows larger than its carrying capacity.
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