1.2-c) Population Dynamics
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• Describe population density and what role density-dependent factors plays within a population.
• The population density is the number of organisms in a specific area. ➞ The density of a population can impact how the population is impacted by certain factors. • Density dependent factors reduce a population when numbers are high and allow the population to increase when numbers are low.
• Explain the role of GRAZING as a density dependent factor.
• Grazing is the process by which a herbivore (or omnivore) feeds on plants. ➞ Grazings can be either generalists or specialists. • Generalists: ➞ can survive on a wide variety of plants • Specialists: ➞ can only survive on one (e.g. pandas)
• Explain the role of COMPETITION as a density dependent factor.
• Competition occurs when organisms are competing for the same resource(s). • When resources are limited, competition will reduce the size of the population. ➞ Only the fittest (most well adapted) will be expected to survive.
• Explain the role of INTRASPECIFIC COMPETITION as a density dependent factor.
• Intraspecific competition occurs when individuals of the SAME species are competing for the same resource(s). ➞ This includes competition for: 1. Mates 2. Space (territory) 3. Food • Intraspecific competition is intense because the organisms occupy the same niche so are competing for an identical set of resources.
• Explain the role of INTERSPECIFIC COMPETITION as a density-dependent factor.
• Interspecific competition occurs when organisms from DIFFERENT species are competing for the same resource(s). • The species less well-adapted to the niche must either adapt or die. ➞ This is referred to as the competitve exclusion principle. • (i.e. lions will compete with hyenas, leopards and cheetah for prey)
• Explain the role of PARASITISM as a density-dependent factor.
• In a parasitic relationship, one species benefits at the expense of the other species.
• Explain the role of PREDATION as a density dependent factor.
• Predation is the biological interaction where a predator consumes a prey species. • Predation is an essential part of ecosystem management because it controls the number of primary consumers.