British Columbia CORE Hunting Practice Exam

What are three important factors that affect population dynamics?

1. Age, climate, territory

2. Age, density, productivity

3. Food, water, shelter

4. Reproductive rates, mortality, migration

The correct answer is: Age, density, productivity

The concept of population dynamics encompasses various factors that influence the growth and decline of populations within an ecosystem. One of the important choices highlights three critical components that significantly impact population dynamics: reproductive rates, mortality, and migration. Reproductive rates refer to the number of offspring produced by individuals, which directly affects population size and growth potential. High reproductive rates can lead to rapid population increases, while low rates may result in population decline. Mortality rates, or how many individuals die within a certain time frame, also play a crucial role. High mortality can decrease population numbers, while low mortality can contribute to growth. Migration, involving the movement of individuals into (immigration) or out of (emigration) a population, can lead to changes in population size and genetic diversity. These factors interact with one another and with the environment, ultimately determining the structure and dynamics of populations within an ecosystem. While age, climate, territory, food, water, shelter, and density are also important aspects of population dynamics, the chosen factors highlight more direct influences on population changes. Age can affect reproductive strategies, climate can drive habitat suitability, and territory can influence resource availability. However, reproductive rates, mortality, and migration are fundamental to understanding how populations fluctuate over time.