Why weren't the people on Easter island able to grow their own food to survive?

The people of Easter Island, or Rapa Nui, faced significant challenges in agriculture due to the island's limited arable land and poor soil quality. Deforestation, primarily caused by the construction of moai statues and the introduction of invasive species, further degraded the environment, leading to soil erosion and reduced crop yields. Additionally, overpopulation and unsustainable practices strained resources, ultimately hindering their ability to grow sufficient food for survival. These factors combined created a precarious situation that contributed to societal decline.