Which of the following best explains the term 'carrying capacity'?

The term 'carrying capacity' refers specifically to the maximum number of individuals of a particular species that an environment can sustainably support. This concept takes into account both the availability of resources such as food, water, and shelter, as well as the ecological limits that prevent populations from growing indefinitely. When a population exceeds its carrying capacity, resources become scarce, which can lead to increased mortality rates, decreased birth rates, and ultimately a decline in the population size. This principle is crucial for understanding population dynamics and managing wildlife and natural resources effectively.

Other options, while related to ecological concepts, do not accurately define carrying capacity. For instance, the idea of the maximum number of species that can coexist in an area is more aligned with biodiversity and ecological niches. The rate of reproduction deals with population growth patterns, which doesn't directly define carrying capacity. Lastly, while resources being limited does relate to carrying capacity, it is not the definition itself but rather a factor influencing it.