The measure of a habitat to indefinitely sustain a population at a particular density is called:
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → carrying capacity
Carrying capacity measures how far a habitat can sustain a population at a particular density, without end. Below it a population tends to grow; above it the population falls.
Option (1) absorptive capacity — Incorrect. This is the ability of the environment to absorb degradation.
Option (2) regenerative capacity — Incorrect. This is the power of a natural system to renew its resources.
Option (3) assimilating capacity — Incorrect. This is the limit up to which the environment can take in wastes.
Option (4) carrying capacity — Correct. It is the largest population a habitat can sustain indefinitely.
NCERT (2026-27): Glossary: “Carrying Capacity – It is the measure of habitat to indefinitely sustain a population at a particular density. A more technical definition for carrying capacity is the largest size of a density-dependent population for which the population growth rate is zero. Hence, below carrying capacity, populations will tend to increase, while they will decrease above carrying capacity. Population size decreases above carrying capacity due to either reduced survivorship (e.g. due to insufficient space or food) or reproductive success (e.g. due to insufficient food, or behavioural interactions), or both. The carrying capacity of an environment will vary for different species in different habitats, and can change over time due to a variety factors, including trends in food availability, environmental conditions and space.” |