POPULATION ECOLOGY

What is the definition of a population in ecology?

A group of organisms belonging to the same species, found in the same area at the same time.

What does abundance refer to in population ecology?

Number of individuals in a population.

What is the sex ratio in the context of population ecology?

Number of males to females in a population.

What are juvenile age classes?

Individuals that have not reached reproductive stage.

What characterizes adult age classes in a population?

Individuals that have reached reproductive stage.

What is an open population?

A population with movement of individuals, including immigration and emigration.

What defines a closed population?

A population with no movement across boundaries, often separated by barriers.

How is population density calculated?

Population Density = Abundance / Area (m² or km²).

What is meant by low population density?

Fewer individuals in a larger area.

What factors contribute to low population density?

Less food, water, space, mating partners, and more predators.

What is high population density?

More individuals in a smaller area.

What factors contribute to high population density?

More food, water, mating partners, and fewer predators.

What are artificial boundaries in ecology?

Man-made barriers such as fences, globes, or cages.

What are natural boundaries in ecology?

Natural features like rivers, canyons, mountains, oceans, or mudslides.