Ecology Of Populations 3

Question 1

In the logistic growth equation dN/dt = rN(1 − N/K), population growth rate is greatest when N equals:

Accepted Answer

K/2

Answer

The logistic growth rate is maximized at N = K/2, where the term (1 − N/K) is 0.5 and rN is still large.

Question 2

Mark-recapture studies estimate population size using the Lincoln-Petersen method. If 50 animals are marked, 60 are later captured, and 15 of those are marked, what is the estimated population size?

Accepted Answer

200

Answer

N = (M × C) / R = (50 × 60) / 15 = 200, where M = marked, C = second capture, R = recaptured marked individuals.

Question 3

Which life history strategy is associated with K-selected species?

Accepted Answer

Few offspring, extensive parental care, late maturity

Answer

K-selected species invest heavily in few offspring and typically live in stable environments near carrying capacity.

Question 4

A metapopulation consists of:

Accepted Answer

Several subpopulations connected by dispersal across a fragmented landscape

Answer

Metapopulations are networks of spatially separated subpopulations that exchange individuals through immigration and emigration.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes scramble competition within a population?

Accepted Answer

All individuals share resources equally, but each may get an insufficient amount

Answer

In scramble competition, resources are divided among all competitors, potentially leaving each individual with too little to survive or reproduce.

Ecology Practice Test

Ecology Practice Test

Ecology Of Populations 3