The density-independent limiting factor is a factor that affects a population regardless of its size or density. Let's analyze the options provided:
1. Weather - Weather can be a density-independent limiting factor. Extreme weather events like hurricanes, droughts, or heatwaves can impact populations regardless of their density.
2. Competition - Competition between individuals or species for resources like food, water, or space is a density-dependent limiting factor. It becomes more intense as the population size increases.
3. Fire - Fire is also a density-independent limiting factor. It can affect populations irrespective of their density, especially in ecosystems where fire plays a natural role in shaping community structure.
4. Precipitation - Precipitation can be a density-independent limiting factor. Lack of rainfall (drought) or excess rainfall (floods) can impact populations without regard to their density.
Therefore, the correct answer is: Competition. It is a density-dependent limiting factor, unlike the other options provided which are density-independent limiting factors.
