Question

classify each limiting factor below as either density - dependent or density - independent by placing an x in the appropriate column.
factor
lava flow
number of predators
spread of disease
especially cold winter
toxic chemical spill into a stream
another species competing for the same resources
diverting a river for irrigation
fungus that attacks elm trees
analyze why populations are limited in their spatial distribution.

Explanation:

Density - dependent factors are influenced by population density, such as disease spread and predator - prey relationships. Density - independent factors affect populations regardless of density, like natural disasters (lava flow), weather (cold winter), and chemical spills. Diverting a river, competing for resources, and fungus attacking elm trees are density - dependent as they relate to population interactions. A stream is a physical feature not inherently density - related.

Answer:

Lava flow: Density - independent
Number of predators: Density - dependent
Spread of disease: Density - dependent
Especially cold winter: Density - independent
Toxic chemical spill into a stream: Density - independent
Stream: Neither (it's a physical feature)
Another species competing for the same resources: Density - dependent
Diverting a river for irrigation: Density - dependent
Fungus that attacks elm trees: Density - dependent
Analyze why populations are limited in their spatial distribution: Neither (it's a question prompt, not a factor)