1. Time is represented on the x-axis.
2. The number of individuals is represented on the y-axis.
3. At which point on the curve (I, II, III) is the population increasing at the fastest rate? II
4. At which point on the curve (I, II, III) is the population leveling off? III
5. At which point on the curve (A or B) has the population reached the carrying capacity or the maximum population density for its environment? B
6. What would happen to the growth curve if the temperature suddenly dropped, a pollutant or a new predator were introduced, thus making the environment less than ideal for this organism?
The population would likely decline, and the carrying capacity (K) would decrease, causing the curve to level off at a lower number of individuals. The population might drop below the new carrying capacity before stabilizing.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of predator prey relationships worksheet answers.