Population size

4. density dependent factor that reduces pop size by spreading easily in crowded conditions
6. an increase in the size of a population over time
9. where the predator kills and eats the prey
12. a factor that limits population growth more as population density increases, like disease or competition
14. a density-independent factor like floods, hurricanes, or fires that can suddenly reduce a population regardless of its size

1. a factor that limits population growth regardless of population size, like natural disasters or temperature changes
2. the maximum number of individuals an environment can support sustainably
3. a way to estimate population size or density by counting organisms in small, square sample areas
5. pop. growth that slows as it approaches a carrying capacity due to limited resources, S-shaped curve
7. the number of individuals of a species over an area
8. pop. growth where the number of individuals increases rapidly over time because growth rate stays constant and resources are unlimited, J-shaped curve
10. a place that provides protection from predators and weather
11. a method to estimate population size by capturing, marking, releasing, and recapturing individuals to see how many are marked
13. the average rate of population growth per individual, usually represented as r in population models