Unit 3 Flashcards
IMPORTANT: 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.7, & 3.8
What is the difference between generalist and specialist species?
Generalist species can thrive in a wide variety of environments, while specialist species are adapted to specific environments.
Generalists have broader niches; specialists have narrower niches.
What are K-selected species characterized by?
K-selected species are characterized by:
* Fewer offspring
* High parental care
* Longer life-span
* Lower biotic potential
* Lower reproductive rate
K-selected species often live in stable environments.
What are r-selected species characterized by?
r-selected species are characterized by:
* Many offspring
* Little parental care
* Shorter life-span
* Higher biotic potential
* Higher reproductive rate
r-selected species often thrive in unstable environments.
What are the three types of survivorship curves?
The three types of survivorship curves are:
* Type I
* Type II
* Type III
Each type represents different survival strategies.
What does carrying capacity (K) refer to?
Carrying capacity (K) refers to the maximum population size that an environment can sustain.
Factors affecting K include resources, space, and environmental conditions.
What are the consequences of overshoot in an ecosystem?
Consequences of overshoot include:
* Resource depletion
* Dieback
* Disease
* Famine
Overshoot occurs when a population exceeds its carrying capacity.
How does resource availability affect population growth?
Resource availability affects population growth through:
* Mortality
* Fecundity
Limited resources can lead to increased mortality and decreased reproduction.
What does an age structure diagram indicate?
An age structure diagram indicates population growth rate by its shape, showing:
* Reproductive age cohort
* Post-reproductive age
The diagram helps predict future population trends.
What factors affect the total fertility rate (TFR) in human populations?
Factors affecting total fertility rate (TFR) include:
* Age of first child (females)
* Educational opportunities for women
* Family planning
* Replacement level fertility
* Infant mortality
* Access to healthcare
* Nutrition
TFR is crucial for understanding population growth.
What is the population growth or decline equation?
The population growth or decline equation is:
(birth rate + immigration rate) - (death rate + emigration rate) x 100
This equation helps assess changes in population size.
What is the Rule of 70 used for?
The Rule of 70 is used to estimate the doubling time of a population by calculating:
70/growth rate
This rule provides a quick estimate of how long it will take for a population to double.
What is the demographic transition?
The demographic transition is a model describing the transition from high birth and death rates to lower birth and death rates as a country develops economically.
It typically includes four stages: preindustrial, transitional, industrial, and post-industrial.
