Population dynamics

Science

Definition

Population dynamics is the study of how and why populations change in size and structure over time. It examines factors like birth rates, death rates, immigration, and emigration that cause populations to grow, shrink, or stabilize.

Examples

  • Deer populations rising when wolves are removed from an area
  • Algal blooms occurring when nutrient runoff increases reproduction rates
  • Seasonal fluctuations in mosquito populations based on temperature and rainfall
Key Fact

Population change = (births + immigration) − (deaths + emigration)

Related Terms

Population growth Population ecology Carrying capacity Community ecology

Study This Concept

Practice population dynamics with free review games in these units:

Biology Unit 7: Ecology and Ecosystems