Density-independent Factors
Density-independent factors include food or nutrient limitation, pollutants in the environment, and climate extremes. In addition, catastrophic factors, such as fires and hurricanes can also impact population growth.
For example, Wissahickon Valley Park's close proximity to the city of Philadelphia leaves it vulnerable to harmful pollutants. The improper disposal of common chemicals such as those in paint can greatly affect a population if ingested. If those chemical contaminate a shrub such as the Rhododendron, it can by biomagnifications, end up killing consumers higher up in the tropic layers.
The quality of nutrients (such as food quality, amount of particular plant nutrients) in an environment affects the ability of an organism to survive, grow, and reproduce. The lower the quality of the nutrients, the higher the environmental stress.
For example, Wissahickon Valley Park's close proximity to the city of Philadelphia leaves it vulnerable to harmful pollutants. The improper disposal of common chemicals such as those in paint can greatly affect a population if ingested. If those chemical contaminate a shrub such as the Rhododendron, it can by biomagnifications, end up killing consumers higher up in the tropic layers.
The quality of nutrients (such as food quality, amount of particular plant nutrients) in an environment affects the ability of an organism to survive, grow, and reproduce. The lower the quality of the nutrients, the higher the environmental stress.