Ecological Niche Modeling and Habitat Fragmentation

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts related to ecological niche modeling, habitat fragmentation, and population dynamics based on the lecture notes.

Ecological Niche Modeling

A method used to predict the potential distribution of a species based on environmental conditions and niche parameters.

Burmese Python

A large snake species known for their invasive characteristics and ability to reproduce by live birth rather than laying eggs.

Niche Parameters

Conditions such as temperature, rainfall, and soil type that define the living requirements for a species.

Habitat Fragmentation

The process where large habitats are broken into smaller, isolated patches due to human activities like deforestation and agriculture.

Fundamental Niche

The set of environmental conditions under which a species can persist.

Dispersal Limitations

Factors that restrict the spread of a species, such as barriers like rivers or urban developments.

Ideal Free Distribution Model

A theory that suggests individuals distribute themselves among available resources in proportion to the quality of those resources.

Subpopulation

A smaller population within a larger population, often isolated to some degree and can become genetically distinct.

Pollinator Pathway

A habitat corridor designed to connect different environments to support pollinators by providing diverse flowers and host plants.

Metapopulation Model

A model representing populations in different patches of habitat that can interact, emphasizing connectivity and movement.

Source-Sink Dynamics

A population model where high-quality habitats (sources) support population growth that can then disperse to lower-quality habitats (sinks).

Dispersion Patterns

The spatial arrangement of individuals in a habitat, including clustered, random, or evenly spaced distributions.

Trophic Relationships

The relationships between organisms in an ecosystem based on their feeding habits and how energy flows between them.

Density Dependence

Population growth that is influenced by the number of individuals in a given area, often related to resource availability.