These are grouped into density-dependent factors, in which the density of the population at a given time affects growth rate and mortality, and density-independent factors, which influence mortality i...These are grouped into density-dependent factors, in which the density of the population at a given time affects growth rate and mortality, and density-independent factors, which influence mortality in a population regardless of population density. Note that in the former, the effect of the factor on the population depends on the density of the population at onset.
Though there are many dimensions to spatial and temporal population dynamics, discussions of population dynamics often center on changes in population size over time. Population ecologists are often ...Though there are many dimensions to spatial and temporal population dynamics, discussions of population dynamics often center on changes in population size over time. Population ecologists are often tasked with determining if populations are increasing, stable, or declining. More complex patterns are also possible, such as rebounds after sharp declines or regular cycles. To understand what determines what a population does over time ecologists think about processes of population regulation -