General Biology Population Dynamics Flashcards

Flashcards for General Biology Lecture Review

Population Density

The number of individuals per unit area or volume.

Dispersion

The pattern of spacing among individuals within the boundaries of the population (clumped, uniform, random).

∆N/∆t = B - D

Change in population size over time equals the number of births minus the number of deaths.

Per Capita Birth Rate (b)

The number of births per individual in a population per unit time.

Per Capita Death Rate (m)

The number of deaths per individual in a population per unit time.

dN/dt = rN

Equation for exponential population growth, where r is the intrinsic rate of increase.

Exponential Growth

Population increase under idealized conditions (unlimited resources), resulting in a J-shaped curve.

dN/dt = rN(K-N)/K

Equation for logistic population growth, incorporating carrying capacity (K).

Sigmoid Curve

S-shaped curve representing logistic population growth.

Carrying Capacity (K)

The maximum population size that an environment can support, varying with environmental changes.

Density-Dependent Regulation

Mechanisms that reduce population growth rates through competition, territoriality, disease, predation, toxic wastes, and intrinsic factors.