Enter the population size, rate of increase of population, and the total change in population over the time period to determine the carrying capacity.

Carrying Capacity Formula

The following formula is used to calculate a carrying capacity.

K = r * N * (1-N) / CP
  • Where K is the carrying capacity
  • r is the rate of population increase
  • N is the population size
  • CP is the change in population size

To calculate a carrying capacity, multiply the rate of population increase, by the size, then again by 1 minus the size, then finally divide by the change in size.

Carrying Capacity Definition

A carrying capacity is defined as a constant that explains how a population grows within a certain area.

Carrying Capacity Example

How to calculate a carrying capacity?

The first step in calculating a carrying capacity is to determine the rate of population increase. In this example problem, the rate of population increase is found to be 50%.

Next, determine the current population size. For this example problem, the population size will be 5000.

Next, determine the change in population size. In this case, the change in population size is 100.

Finally, calculate the carrying capacity using the formula above:

K = r * N * (1-N) / CP

K = .50 * 5000 * (1-5000) / 100

K = -124957

FAQ

What is carrying capacity?

A carrying capacity is a constant used in ecology when using the logistic population growth equation.