Which statement about density-independent growth is true?

• A. Density-independent growth is also known as exponential growth.
• B. It is the same as logistic growth.
• C. It slows as population size increases.
• D. It requires a carrying capacity.

Answer: (A)

In density-independent growth, the number of individuals doesn’t affect how fast the population grows—the per-capita growth rate stays roughly constant. When resources are abundant and conditions are favorable, that constant rate leads to exponential growth, where the population increases rapidly in a J-shaped curve. That’s why describing density-independent growth as exponential growth is the best fit: growth isn’t slowed by crowding and doesn’t hinge on reaching a carrying capacity.

The other ideas fall short because they tie growth to population size or require a carrying capacity. Logistic growth introduces density dependence and slows as N approaches carrying capacity. Density-independent growth doesn’t inherently involve a carrying capacity, and its rate isn’t diminished by larger population size. In real systems, density-independent growth is often temporary, occurring after disturbances or when a new habitat offers plenty of resources.