What defines a limiting factor in an ecosystem?

A limiting factor in an ecosystem is defined as an environmental condition or resource that restricts the growth, abundance, or distribution of a population. By decreasing the availability of essential resources or deteriorating habitat conditions, limiting factors can prevent populations from reaching their full potential size.

For instance, limited access to food, water, space, or appropriate climate conditions can all serve as limiting factors that inhibit population growth and can lead to competition among individuals and species. Understanding limiting factors is crucial for studying ecosystem dynamics, as they play a vital role in maintaining the balance of populations within ecosystems.