Between 2005 and 2020, the population of harbor seals was growing exponentially. In the year 2005, harbor seals had a population size of 5500. By 2020, the population size of harbor seals was 7000. The carrying capacity for this population is 7500 and the population has a maximum per capita growth rate of 0.25. Using the logistic growth rate equation, how and why did the population growth rate change from 2005 to 2020?

A) In 2005, the population growth rate was approximately 367, while in 2020, the population growth rate had decreased to approximately 117. A decrease in the growth rate occurs as a population approaches its carrying capacity and resources become more limited.

B) In 2005, the population growth rate was approximately 367, while in 2020, the population growth rate had decreased to approximately 117. A decrease in the growth rate occurs as the population aims to slowly surpass its carrying capacity to ensure individuals have enough resources.

C) In 2005, the population growth rate was 1375, while in 2020, the population growth rate had increased to 1750. An increase in the growth rate occurs as the population has more competition for resources and is forced to produce more offspring to counteract.

D) In 2005, the population growth rate was 1375, while in 2020, the population growth rate had increased to 1750. An increase in the growth rate occurs as the population wants to use all of its available resources and reach its carrying capacity as quickly as possible.