Population Dynamics

Front

What is population dynamics?

Back

The study of how populations of organisms change over time and the factors that influence these changes.

Front

What does it mean when we say a population is limited by resources?

Back

It means that the availability of food, water, shelter, and other resources can restrict the growth and size of a population.

Front

What is a limiting factor?

Back

A condition that restricts the growth, abundance, or distribution of an organism or a population of organisms in an ecosystem.

Front

How do resources affect population size?

Back

Population size increases with unlimited resources and decreases with limited resources.

Front

What role does predation play in population dynamics?

Back

Predation can limit the size of prey populations and influence the overall balance of an ecosystem.

Front

What is carrying capacity?

Back

The maximum number of individuals of a species that an environment can support sustainably.

Front

How does disease affect population dynamics?

Back

Disease can reduce population size by increasing mortality rates and decreasing reproduction.

Front

What is the relationship between cooperation and population dynamics?

Back

Cooperation can enhance survival and efficiency in resource use, leading to better population stability.

Front

What is an example of a density-dependent factor?

Back

Factors like food availability, disease, and competition that have a greater impact as population density increases.

Front

What is an example of a density-independent factor?

Back

Factors like natural disasters, climate change, and human activities that affect populations regardless of their density.