In the exponential growth equation N_t = N_oe^rt, e represents :

The correct option is The base of natural logarithms.

In ecology and biology, the exponential growth of a population is represented by the mathematical formula:
$N_t=N_0{e}^{rt}$
Let us break down each parameter of this equation to understand its meaning:

1. $N_t$ represents the population density at time $t$.
2. $N_0$ represents the population density at time zero (initial population density).
3. $r$ represents the intrinsic rate of natural increase.
4. $t$ represents the time duration.
5. $e$ represents Euler's number, which is the base of natural logarithms and has an approximate mathematical value of 2.71828.

Therefore, in the given exponential growth equation, the symbol e represents the base of natural logarithms.