Population Ecology Chapter 22 notes

Balancing Populations Environmental factors must be in balance for a population to survive. What are some environmental factors that could upset or disrupt this balance? (You are going to have to think about this; it’s not in your book!)

Answers Drought, pollution, habitat destruction, no food source, etc.

Determining Population Size There are four methods to use in order to determine population size, what are they? Explain how each method works. (pg. 696)

Answers Direct observation --- to count one by one Indirect observation --- Observe tracks to determine size Sampling --- Take an estimate by only counting a few in a given area Mark-and-recapture --- Capture, mark, then release, then capture and count.

Changes in Population Size Populations can change in size when new members enter the population or when members leave the population. What are some ways that a population can change? (pg )

Answers Births and deaths Immigration --- moving into an area Emigration --- moving out of an area

Limiting Factors A limiting factor is an environmental factor that prevents or stops a population from growing. What would be some examples of limiting factors? (pg )

Answers Examples of limiting factors --- Food, space, weather

Surviving What are some adaptations that an animal might have in order to survive? ( If you need help, use pages ) How do an organism’s adaptations help it to survive?

Answers Adaptations --- camouflage, wings to fly, protective coverings, speed, etc. Adaptations help it to survive because it helps them to be protected from predators.