Population size and population density are two important characteristics of a population. Population size is the absolute number of individuals in the population, while density takes in to account the area that the population inhabits. The density of a population is important because whether individuals are crowded or spread out affects their lives and their interactions with each other. For example, being in a crowded population can have both advantages and disadvantages. Having more individuals of your species nearby increases the likelihood of finding a mate and can help protect the group from predators. Because there are more individuals, the genetic diversity of the population will be higher. This will make the population more likely to survive outbreaks of disease. However, living in a smaller population can also be advantageous. With fewer individuals in your group, it will decrease the likelihood of disease outbreak and reduce competition for resources.
Use the activity below to test your understanding of some advantages and disadvantages of living in populations of high vs. low density.
Choose the statement that is an advantage of living in a HIGH density population.
In a crowded population, individuals have to compete more for limited resources but can more easily find a mate.
In a crowded population, individuals have to compete more for limited resources but can more easily find a mate.
In a crowded population, individuals have to compete more for limited resources but can more easily find a mate.
Choose the statement that is a disadvantage of living in a HIGH density population.
In a crowded population, there are typically more alleles per gene and more protection from predators, but there is more competition.
In a crowded population, there are typically more alleles per gene and more protection from predators, but there is more competition.
In a crowded population, there are typically more alleles per gene and more protection from predators, but there is more competition.
Choose the statement that is an advantage of living in a LOW density population.
When there are fewer individuals, it may be harder to find a mate, but there is less competition for resources.
When there are fewer individuals, it may be harder to find a mate, but there is less competition for resources.
When there are fewer individuals, it may be harder to find a mate, but there is less competition for resources.
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