Tell what type of growth model is depicted in the graph and describe the factors that must be met for a population to experience this type of growth. Identify the labeled phases "A," "B," "C," and "D" and briefly explain what occurs during these phases.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

This is a logistic growth curve. This type of growth curve takes into consideration what occurs when environmental resistance comes into play. Exponential growth does not continue because environmental conditions, both biotic and abiotic, cause population growth to slow down. "A" is the lag phase. During the lag phase, growth is slow because the population is small. "B" is the exponential phase. During this phase, growth is accelerating. "C" is the deceleration phase, during which growth slows down. "D" is the stable equilibrium phase. During this phase, there is little, if any, growth because births and deaths are about equal.