L1 - Population Ecology Flashcards

Flashcards about Population Ecology

Ecology

The study of patterns of distribution and abundance of organisms on Earth, depending on both biotic and abiotic factors.

Population

A group of individuals of the same species living in a particular area at a particular time that can reproduce in nature to produce viable, fertile offspring.

Demography

Study of populations

Population Size

Total number of organisms.

Population Density (D)

Number of individuals of the same species that occur per unit area or volume. Calculated by dividing total numbers counted (N) by (S) the space occupied by the population.

Crude Density

Number of individuals of the same species within the total area of the entire habitat.

Ecological Density

Number of individuals of the same species per unit area or volume actually used by the individuals.

Population Dispersion

General pattern in which individuals of a population are distributed through a specific area.

Clumped Distribution

Dispersion pattern in which individuals in a population are more concentrated in certain parts of a habitat due to favorable conditions.

Uniform Distribution

Individuals are equally spaced throughout the habitat, often due to competition.

Random Distribution

Individuals are spread throughout a habitat in an unpredictable and patternless manner, with minimal influence from other individuals.

Quadrat Methods

Sampling technique commonly used for stationary organisms where population size and density are measured in a small, isolated area, and average estimates are extrapolated.

Mark-Recapture Method

Sampling technique for estimating the size and density of mobile wildlife populations involving capture, marking, release, and recapture.