A finite resource in the environment that keeps a population from steadily increasing is known as?

Answer;

Limiting factor.

A finite resource in the environment that keeps a population from steadily increasing is known as Limiting factor.

Explanation;

If the presence or absence of a factor limits the growth, abundance, or distribution of the ecosystems elements, it is called a limiting factor.

There are several abiotic factors (non living factors) that limit ecosystem growth, including temperature, precipitation, sunlight, soil configuration, and soil nutrients.

This would be a "limiting factor." To limit means to restrict, which is what happens when one of these factors prevents the population from steadily increasing.