What does the term "carrying capacity" mean?

The term "carrying capacity" refers to the maximum population size of a species that an environment can sustainably support over time. This concept takes into account the resources available in the environment, such as food, water, and habitat space, as well as the interactions between species and their environment, including factors like competition and predation. When a population exceeds its carrying capacity, it can lead to resource depletion, increased mortality rates, and a decline in population size as the ecosystem attempts to restore balance.

Understanding carrying capacity is essential for managing wildlife populations and ecosystems, as it helps predict how populations may grow or decline based on environmental factors. This understanding also informs conservation efforts, allowing for better planning to ensure that both the species and the ecosystems they inhabit remain healthy and sustainable.

The other options do not accurately capture this concept. For example, the average population size does not account for the limits imposed by resource availability, while the ideal number of organisms is a subjective measure and may vary. The number of species that can coexist speaks to biodiversity rather than the limit of one species based on resource constraints.