Figure 12.14 The logistic growth model. When the population is small, growth is exponential. When the population is large, growth slows. The inflection point indicates the point at which the population experiences its fastest rate of growth. Above the inflection point, growth begins to slow. When the population reaches its carrying capacity, K, growth is zero. As a result of this growth pattern, the logistic growth model is represented by an S-shaped growth curve.