All organisms share a common genetic origin. Changes in genetic information occur and may result in changes in traits that affect the interaction of the individual with the environment. Humans now have the ability to alter this information and quickly change specific attributes of living organisms. C. Overpopulation 1. The human species has continued to grow exponentially and is challenging the resources of the earth.
Humans are dependent upon the primary productivity of other species.
There are physical, chemical, and biotic factors that limit primary productivity. Due to the interconnectedness of the living and non-living components of the earth, population growth impacts every aspect of the earth's systems. Understanding of fundamental concepts about reproductive biology at organismal and population levels are essential to understanding the consequences of overpopulation. Powerful determinants in the rate of human reproduction are socioeconomic status, religion, education, and the status of women. D. Resource Utilization 1.