What is the role of density dependent and density independent factors in population regulation?
1. Density-dependent Control a) Definition: A density-dependent factor is one where the effect of the factor on the size of the population depends upon the original density or size of the population. A disease is a good example of a density-dependent factor. If a population is dense and the individuals live close together, then each individual will have a higher probability of catching the disease than if the individuals had been living farther apart. Not only will a greater number of individuals be affected, but, more importantly, a greater proportion of the population will be affected if they are living close together. For example, bird populations are often regulated more by this type of regulation. b) Characteristic of the factor: In general, density-dependent factors are biological factors, such as diseases, parasites, competition, and predation. 2. Density-independent Control a) Definition: A density-independent factor is one where the effect of the factor on the size of the popu
