Question

Which of the following statement(s) accurately describe how biotic factors, such as food availability, will affect the population of species within an ecosystem?

Predation and parasitism in an ecosystem are natural and will not affect the population.

If food sources are readily available, then species will thrive and populations will stay more stable.

If a population of predators increases too much, then prey populations will decrease and there may not be enough food for the predators over time.

Biotic factors only affect the population if it is already out of balance.

If food sources are too limited, organisms will have to move into another area, or they may starve

Answer 1

Correct statements: 2, 3 and 5.

Brief evaluation:
1. False — predation and parasitism are natural but do affect population sizes (they regulate, reduce, or shape populations).
2. Generally true — abundant food usually allows higher survival and reproduction, which helps populations thrive and can promote stability (though other factors can still cause fluctuations).
3. True — more predators can reduce prey numbers; if prey become scarce, predators may then decline (classic predator–prey dynamics).
4. False — biotic factors influence populations all the time, not only when a population is “out of balance.”
5. True — when food is too limited, individuals may migrate, suffer starvation, or experience reduced reproduction, causing population declines.