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If you are given an unlimited growth model in the form:

dP(t)/dt = k P(t)

Obviously the population growth would never be unlimited, but let's presume for the moment that we are introducing a species into an environment where there is the possibility for unlimited growth, at least on for a given time -- i.e. invasive species.

k is some rate of growth of the population at time t, denoted by P(t)

What are some feasible values of k? In other words, if a number is way above or way below k, where would I know that the research I am reading is preposterously off-base?

I am sure it is different for different types of animals, including mammals, birds, bacteria, etc.

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The feasible value for K depends on the growth rate and is variable. The good thing with using mathematical models is that you can provide a range of values for a parameter and observe the effect on the system. You can get an idea of the feasible values based on literature evidence. You first decide what that invading species might be. – WYSIWYG Apr 9 at 9:05

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