The death by bubonic plague of about 1/3 of Europe's population during the fourteenth century is a good example of:
A. Abiotic factors limiting population size
B. A density dependent effect
C. A time lag
D. A density-independent effect
E. Carrying capacity
B. A density dependent effect
To determine the correct answer, let's analyze the options and see which one applies to the scenario of the bubonic plague in Europe during the fourteenth century.
A. Abiotic factors limiting population size: Abiotic factors refer to non-living influences in an ecosystem, such as climate or geological features. The bubonic plague is not caused by abiotic factors, so this option is not applicable.
B. A density dependent effect: Density-dependent effects are factors that impact the population size based on its density, such as competition for resources or spread of diseases. The bubonic plague, which is highly contagious and spreads more rapidly in densely populated areas, is an example of a density-dependent effect. Thus, this option could be applicable to the scenario.
C. A time lag: A time lag refers to a delay between an event and its impact on a population. While there may have been some time lag between the initial outbreak and its full devastating impact, this option does not accurately describe the relationship between the bubonic plague and its effect on the population. Therefore, this option is not applicable.
D. A density-independent effect: Density-independent effects, unlike density-dependent effects, impact the population size regardless of its density. For example, natural disasters like earthquakes or hurricanes can affect the population size irrespective of its density. Since the bubonic plague spread more quickly and had a greater impact in densely populated areas, it is not an example of a density-independent effect. Thus, this option is not applicable.
E. Carrying capacity: Carrying capacity refers to the maximum population size that an environment can sustain over the long term. While the bubonic plague did lead to a significant decrease in the population during the fourteenth century, it is not a direct example of the carrying capacity. Therefore, this option is not applicable.
Based on the analysis, the most suitable answer is B. A density-dependent effect, as the plague's spread and impact were influenced by population density.
Check these sites and then tell us which one you think is the best answer.
http://www2.pwsd76.ab.ca/biodiversity/photo.htm
http://www.biology-online.org/dictionary/Density_Dependant_Factor
http://www.biology-online.org/dictionary/Carrying_capacity