The term for the maximum population that an environment can sustain indefinitely is carrying capacity. This ecological concept is crucial for understanding population dynamics and ecosystem health. The carrying capacity depends on factors such as resource availability, habitat conditions, and competition within a community. When a population exceeds its carrying capacity, it may result in resource depletion, leading to a decline in population size. Understanding the carrying capacity aids in managing wildlife, agriculture, and human development to maintain a sustainable balance with the surrounding environment.