logistic equation(logistic model) A mathematical description of growth rates for a simple population in a confined space with limited resources. The equation summarizes the interaction of biotic potential with environmental resources, as seen in populations showing the S-shaped growth curve, as: dN/dt = rN(N − K)/K where N is the number of individuals in the population, t is time, r is the biotic potential of the organism concerned, and K is the saturation value or carrying capacity for that organism in that environment. The resulting growth rate or logistic curve is a parabola, while the graph for organism numbers over time is sigmoidal. Compare J-shaped growth curve.

logistic equation (logistic model) A mathematical description of growth rates for a simple population in a confined space with limited resources. The equation summarizes the interaction of biotic potential with environmental resources, as seen in populations showing the S-shaped growth curve, as: dN/dt = rN(K − N)/K where N is the number of individuals in the population, t is time, r is the biotic potential of the organism concerned, and K is the saturation value or carrying capacity for that organism in that environment. The resulting growth rate or logistic curve is a parabola, while the graph for organism numbers over time is sigmoidal. Compare J-SHAPED GROWTH CURVE.

logistic equation (logistic model) A mathematical description of growth rates for a simple population in a confined space with limited resources. The equation summarizes the interaction of biotic potential with environmental resources, as seen in populations showing the S-shaped growth curve, as: dN/dt = rN(N - K)/k where N is the number of individuals in the population, t is time, r is the biotic potential of the organism concerned, and K is the saturation value or carrying capacity for that organism in that environment. The resulting growth rate or logistic curve is a parabola, while the graph for organism numbers over time is sigmoidal. Compare J-SHAPED GROWTH CURVE.