What is the primary effect of density-dependent limiting factors on population growth?

Density-dependent limiting factors play a crucial role in regulating population growth based on the size of the population. These factors become more significant as the population density increases. Examples include competition for resources such as food, water, and habitat, predation, disease, and waste accumulation. As a population grows, the impact of these factors typically intensifies, leading to a decrease in birth rates and an increase in death rates. This regulation helps to maintain a balance within the ecosystem and prevents overpopulation, which can lead to resource depletion and environmental degradation.

In contrast, some factors do not change their effects depending on population density, such as natural disasters or climate. Therefore, understanding that density-dependent factors specifically influence population dynamics as size increases highlights their role in ecological stability and sustainability.