Unit 3 - Populations

These flashcards cover key concepts related to population dynamics, ecological tolerance, and species survivorship strategies.

Generalist Species

Species that thrive in a variety of habitats and are adaptable to changing conditions.

Specialist Species

Species that are adapted to specific habitats and conditions and often struggle in changing environments.

K-Selected Species

Species that are typically large, produce few offspring, invest significant energy in each offspring, and tend to mature slowly.

r-Selected Species

Species that are typically small, produce many offspring, invest minimal energy in each offspring, and mature quickly.

Biotic Potential

The maximum reproductive rate of a population under ideal conditions.

Survivorship Curve

A graphical representation that shows the survival rates of a cohort from birth to the maximum age.

Type I Curve

A survivorship curve characteristic of K-selected species, showing high survival rates in early and middle life.

Type II Curve

A survivorship curve showing a constant rate of survival throughout the life span.

Type III Curve

A survivorship curve characteristic of r-selected species, showing low survival rates early in life.

Carrying Capacity (K)

The maximum population size that an environment can sustain indefinitely under given conditions.

Overshoot

When a population exceeds its carrying capacity, leading to resource depletion.

Population Dieback

A sharp reduction in the size of a population due to resource depletion and environmental stress.

Age Structure Diagram

A graphical representation showing the distribution of various age groups in a population, which helps indicate growth rates.

Resource Availability

The amount of resources available to a population, which impacts growth rates and survival.

Fecundity

The reproductive capacity of an individual within a population, typically referring to the number of offspring produced.