Biology STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) Practice Test

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Study for the Biology STAAR Test. Improve your skills with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question is accompanied by hints and explanations. Prepare for success!

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What is the carrying capacity of an ecosystem?

  1. The total number of species it can host

  2. The maximum number of organisms of a species it can support

  3. The average number of organisms present

  4. The number of producers needed

The correct answer is: The maximum number of organisms of a species it can support

The carrying capacity of an ecosystem is defined as the maximum number of organisms of a particular species that the environment can sustainably support over a long period. This involves the availability of resources such as food, water, shelter, and space, which are essential for the survival and reproduction of that species. When the population exceeds this capacity, the resources become limited, which can lead to a decline in population due to factors such as starvation, disease, or increased predation. The focus on a specific species highlights the importance of understanding population dynamics and resource management within an ecosystem. It reflects the balance that exists between the biological needs of the organisms and the environmental conditions. In contrast, the total number of species an ecosystem can host, the average number of organisms present, or the number of producers required does not address the sustainable limits imposed by resource availability for any one species.

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