Questions: Which of the following factors could affect the carrying capacity (k) of a habitat for bears? The number of berries available The number of den sites available for hibernation The number of salmon available All of the above
Transcript text: Which of the following factors could affect the carrying capacity $(k)$ of a habitat for bears?
The number of berries available
The number of den sites available for hibernation
The number of salmon available
All of the above
Solution
The answer is the last one: All of the above.
Explanation:
The number of berries available: This affects the food supply for bears, which is a critical component of the carrying capacity. A higher availability of berries can support a larger bear population.
The number of den sites available for hibernation: Adequate den sites are essential for bears to survive through hibernation periods. Limited den sites can restrict the number of bears that the habitat can support.
The number of salmon available: Similar to berries, salmon is a significant food source for bears, especially in certain regions. More salmon can increase the carrying capacity by providing more food resources.
All these factors contribute to the resources available in the habitat, which directly influences the carrying capacity for bears. Therefore, all of the above factors could affect the carrying capacity \(k\) of a habitat for bears.