Which factor is known to limit wildlife production?

Wildlife production can be significantly impacted by the presence of disease within animal populations. Diseases can reduce the number of individuals capable of reproducing, leading to lower birth rates and higher mortality rates. This disruption in population dynamics can cause serious declines in certain species, particularly if they are already vulnerable due to habitat loss or other stressors. The spread of disease can also affect the overall health of wildlife populations, making them less competitive and more susceptible to other factors that can limit their production, such as food availability and environmental changes.

In contrast, conservation and preservation efforts aim to create conditions that support stable and thriving wildlife populations, while the edge effect refers to how different habitat types interact at their boundaries, which can sometimes enhance biodiversity rather than limit it. Understanding the impact of diseases on wildlife is crucial for effective management and conservation strategies.