9 Flashcards
What is the main goal of applied population biology (APB)?
To understand the factors affecting abundance and distribution of rare or endangered species and how to prevent their decline.
What is a census vs. a survey in population monitoring?
Census: complete count of all individuals.
Survey: estimates using sampling methods like transects, mark-recapture, or random sampling.
What is Population Viability Analysis (PVA)?
A model that estimates extinction risk and identifies key factors affecting population survival under stochastic conditions.
What is the main benefit of PVA?
It predicts the probability of extinction and helps set population targets for conservation.
What factors are considered in PVA?
Deterministic: species traits (e.g., fecundity, lifespan)
Stochastic: random events, environmental variation, catastrophes, genetic drift, and inbreeding.
What is a metapopulation?
A “population of populations” made up of semi-isolated subpopulations connected by dispersal.
What is the rescue effect?
Recolonization of extinct subpopulations by immigrants from neighboring patches.
How does a source-sink model differ from a metapopulation model?
Source-sink: habitats differ in quality (source = surplus, sink = deficit).
Metapopulation: assumes equal-quality patches with stochastic extinction.
What is a source population?
A high-quality habitat where natality > mortality, producing excess individuals.
Why is habitat connectivity critical for population survival?
It allows for dispersal, which maintains genetic diversity and enables the rescue effect.
What is a reintroduction program?
Releasing individuals into an ecologically suitable area within their historical range to establish a sustainable population.
What factor must be addressed before reintroduction?
The original cause of population decline (e.g., habitat degradation, predation) must be resolved.
What was the goal of the Northern Rockies wolf reintroduction?
To establish 10 breeding pairs in each of 3 areas for 3 years.
What is the difference between hard and soft release methods?
Hard release: immediate release into the wild.
Soft release: animals are held in enclosures to acclimate before release
Why are biological and social criteria both important in reintroduction planning?
Biological factors ensure habitat suitability; social acceptance is crucial to minimize conflict and ensure long-term success.
