Question

In any population, certain factors may enhance population growth while others may limit or even cause a population to decline. We can describe these factors as either density dependent or density independent. Drag each factor to the correct classification.
Put responses in the correct input to answer the question. Select a response, navigate to the desired input and insert the response. Responses can be selected and inserted using the space bar, enter key, left mouse button or touchpad. Responses can also be moved by dragging with a mouse.
Density Dependent Density Independent

Answer 1

Density-dependent (effects change with population density)
- Competition for food, water, mates, or nesting sites
- Predation that increases as prey density rises (predator-prey feedback)
- Disease and parasite outbreaks (spread more easily at high density)
- Waste accumulation/toxic buildup
- Territoriality and social stress (intraspecific aggression)
- Reduced reproduction or recruitment due to crowding

Density-independent (effects do not depend on population density)
- Weather events: storms, hurricanes, floods
- Droughts and bad seasonal variation
- Wildfires
- Extreme temperatures (cold snaps, heat waves)
- Pollution or chemical spills
- Habitat destruction from abiotic causes (e.g., landslides)