Lecture 11

• Populations


  A collection of individuals of a single species within a specific area over a specific point in time
• Populations are DYNAMIC (ie. change over time) and can grow rapidly under ideal conditions.
• Two types of Growth:

  1. Exponential growth
  2. Logistic Growth
• Exponential Growth

  Populations grow at a constant rate, with no limiting factors

  
• Logistic Growth

  A population grows at a decreasing rate as it approaches its carrying capacity.

  
• Carrying Capacity 


  • The maximum population possible depends on the limited resources.
  • Is a form of density dependence.
  • Can limit population growth
• Density Dependence


  • Population dynamics, which are influenced by populations density or size.
  • Influenced by biotic factors
• Density Independent factors

  • Factors that impact a population regardless of density or size
  • Can be abiotic factors or random events
  • Can have positive or negative results