What are limiting factors?

Limiting factors are defined as conditions or resources that limit the growth, abundance, or distribution of organisms in an ecosystem. These factors can include elements such as food availability, water supply, space, and environmental conditions like temperature and light. When these factors are in short supply or are otherwise unfavorable, they can hinder the survival and reproduction of organisms, thereby influencing population dynamics.

For example, a shortage of food can limit the number of herbivores that an environment can support, which in turn affects carnivores that rely on those herbivores for food. Similarly, extreme weather conditions can restrict habitats suitable for certain species. This interplay of limiting factors is crucial in determining the health and sustainability of ecosystems.