Population Dynamics and Growth Patterns

These flashcards cover key concepts related to population growth patterns, dynamics, and ecological principles presented in the lecture.

Exponential Growth

A model of population growth where numbers increase rapidly without limits, typically visualized as a J-shaped curve.

Logistic Growth

A model of population growth that describes how growth decreases as the population size approaches the carrying capacity, typically visualized as an S-shaped curve.

Carrying Capacity (K)

The maximum population size that an environment can sustain indefinitely, determined by the availability of resources.

Density-Dependent Regulation

Population growth regulation that depends on the density of the population, generally increasing mortality rates as density increases.

Density-Independent Regulation

Population growth regulation that affects mortality regardless of population density, such as weather and natural disasters.

Intraspecific Competition

Competition among individuals of the same species for limited resources, which can impact population growth.

r-selected Species

Species that reproduce quickly, producing many offspring, and typically survive in unstable environments.

K-selected Species

Species that reproduce slowly, have fewer young, and often thrive in stable environments.

Natural Selection

The process through which traits that improve survival and reproduction become more common in a population over generations.

Population Dynamics

The study of how and why populations change in size and structure over time.