How do factors such as predation, competition, and resources affect population size?

In ecology, the population size of species can be influenced by various factors such as predation, competition, and resource availability. Predation can limit the population by reducing the number of individuals through consumption, while competition for resources like food and habitats can also impact population size. Moreover, the availability of resources directly affects the carrying capacity of an environment, thus influencing population size. Understanding these interactions is crucial in studying population dynamics and ecosystem stability.

The complex interplay of these factors underscores the delicate balance within natural ecosystems.