Limiting factors

Definition

Factors that restrict the growth, abundance, or distribution of a population by limiting its access to resources or creating environmental constraints.

Etymology

From Latin 'limita' meaning 'boundary' and 'factor' meaning 'influence'.

Example

The primary limiting factors for a population of grasshoppers might include food availability, water, and the presence of predators.

Related Terms

• Population growth
• Carrying capacity
• Resource availability