What does the term carrying capacity refer to in population ecology?

Carrying capacity in population ecology is defined as the maximum number of individuals of a particular species that an environment can sustainably support without degrading the habitat. This concept is vital for understanding population dynamics and resource management. It takes into account the availability of food, habitat space, water, and other resources necessary for survival and reproduction.

When a population exceeds its carrying capacity, it can lead to overconsumption of resources, habitat degradation, and ultimately a decline in population numbers, illustrating the balance between ecological demands and resource availability. This balance highlights the importance of sustainable practices in ecosystems to maintain healthy populations and environments.