Population Ecology

These flashcards cover key vocabulary from the lecture notes on population ecology, emphasizing definitions and concepts essential for understanding the subject.

Ecology

The study of interactions between organisms and their environment.

Population

A group of individuals of a single species living in the same general area.

Density

The number of individuals per unit area or volume.

Demography

The study of vital statistics of populations and how they change over time.

Fecundity

The number of offspring potentially produced.

Fertility

The actual number of offspring produced.

Survivorship Curve

A graphical representation of the mortality rates of a population.

Carrying Capacity

The maximum population size that the environment can support.

Exponential Growth

Rapid increase in population size under ideal conditions.

Logistic Growth Model

A model describing population growth that levels off as population size approaches carrying capacity.

Life History Traits

Characteristics of an organism that influence its schedule of reproduction and survival.

Density-Dependent Regulation

Population regulation that is sensitive to population density, such as competition and predation.

Density-Independent Regulation

Factors affecting population size regardless of density, such as natural disasters and temperature.

Trade-offs

Balancing of different traits that can hinder or enhance reproductive success.

R-strategists

Species that reproduce quickly and in large numbers but provide little parental care.

K-strategists

Species that invest more time and resources into fewer offspring.

Invasive Species

Non-native species that spread widely and can cause harm to ecosystems.