Question

Asymptote in a logistic growth curve is obtained when:

• A. The value of 'r' approaches zero
• B. K = N
• C. K > N
• D. K < N

Answer 1

The correct option is B K = N

A population growing in a habitat with limited resources shows logistic growth.

It initially shows a lag phase, followed by phases of acceleration and deceleration.

Finally, an asymptote is obtained when the population density (N) reaches the carrying capacity (K) i.e., N = K.

This is in accordance with the following equation :
$\frac{\mathrm{dN}}{\mathrm{dt}}=\mathrm{rN}\left(\frac{K-N}{K}\right]$
where r is the intrinsic rate of natural increase and t is the time.