[Campbell Biology P.1248] According to the text, which of the following is a key assumption o... | Practice Question

According to the text, which of the following is a key assumption of the logistic model that often does NOT apply to natural populations?

  • A: The population adjusts instantaneously to growth and approaches carrying capacity smoothly.
  • B: Resource availability remains constant throughout the population's growth.
  • C: Predator presence and interspecific competition are absent.
  • D: Reproductive rates decline immediately once food becomes limiting.

Explanation

The text explicitly states: 'The logistic model assumes that populations adjust instantaneously to growth and approach carrying capacity smoothly. In reality, there is often a delay before the negative effects of an increasing population are realized.' This highlights the key assumption that often does not hold true in natural populations.