Population growth patterns

Different species on Earth follow distinct models, and on Astakos IV the same patterns have been observed. Let's take a look at some examples:

Figure 1 - Exponential growth

In exponential growth, a population's growth rate remains constant regardless of population size, making the population grow faster and faster as it gets larger. In nature, populations may grow exponentially for some period, but they will ultimately be limited by resource availability.

Figure 2 - logistic growth

In logistic growth, a population's per capita growth rate gets smaller and smaller as population size approaches a maximum imposed by limited resources in the environment, known as the carrying capacity (K). Exponential growth produces a J-shaped curve, while logistic growth produces an S-shaped curve.

Figure 3 - linear growth

In nature, populations usually grow in spurts that are dependent on both environment and genetics. Therefore, a linear growth rate is rare. A linear model assumes that population growth is occurring at absolute equal increments per unit of time. It also assumes that growth will follow a similar pattern in future years.