Population Ecology Quiz: Trivia!

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  • 1/30 Questions

    If the death rate in a population is greater than the birth rate:

    • The population will generally decrease.
    • The population will remain the same.
    • The population will increase.
    • The birth rate will rise.
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About This Quiz


Population ecology is a sub-category of ecology that works with species populations' variables and how these populations relate to the environment. This discipline is essential in conservation biology, especially in the advancement of population viability study, which predicts the long-term probability of a species surviving in the environment. This quiz will help you better understand population ecology. Go for it.

Population Ecology Quiz: Trivia! - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    If the death rate in a population is greater than the birth rate:

    • The population will generally decrease.

    • The population will remain the same.

    • The population will increase.

    • The birth rate will rise.

    Correct Answer
    A. The population will generally decrease.
    Explanation
    If the death rate in a population is greater than the birth rate, it means that more individuals are dying than being born. This leads to a decrease in the overall population size over time. As the number of deaths exceeds the number of births, the population will gradually decline.

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  • 3. 

    Ecologists use the birth and death rates to calculate a population's growth rate, the rate the population is changing. The birth rate (b) minus the death rate (d) equals the growth rate (g). So, B-D=G  Based on this formula: a population of rabbits with an average of 760 births and 227 deaths has a growth rate of _________ per year:

    • 533 rabbits

    • 233 rabbits

    • 227 rabbits

    • 987 rabbits

    Correct Answer
    A. 533 rabbits
    Explanation
    The birth rate is given as 760 and the death rate is given as 227. To calculate the growth rate, we subtract the death rate from the birth rate: 760 - 227 = 533. Therefore, the growth rate of the rabbit population is 533 rabbits per year.

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  • 4. 

    The organism that is killed is the:

    • Niche

    • Prey

    • Predator

    • Adaptations

    • Predation

    • Symbiosis

    • Natural selection

    • Commensalism

    • Parasite/parasitism

    • Host

    • Competition

    • Mutualism

    Correct Answer
    A. Prey
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "Prey". In ecology, prey refers to the organism that is hunted and killed by another organism, known as the predator. This relationship is a fundamental aspect of the food chain and plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems. Prey species have various adaptations to help them avoid or defend against predators, such as camouflage, speed, or defensive mechanisms. Understanding the dynamics between predators and prey is essential in studying population dynamics and the overall functioning of ecosystems.

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  • 5. 

    What does a negative growth rate mean?

    • The population is declining.

    • The population will remain the same.

    • The population will increase.

    • The population is endangered.

    Correct Answer
    A. The population is declining.
    Explanation
    A negative growth rate means that the population is declining. This indicates that the number of individuals in the population is decreasing over time. It implies that the death rate or emigration rate is higher than the birth rate or immigration rate, resulting in a decrease in population size.

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  • 6. 
    Use the graph to answer the question about changes in the squirrel population.Over which time period(s) did the population increase? - ProProfs

    Use the graph to answer the question about changes in the squirrel population.Over which time period(s) did the population increase?

    • From 1994-1997

    • From 1992-1994

    • From 1994-1996

    • From 1997-1999

    Correct Answer
    A. From 1994-1997
    Explanation
    The graph shows the squirrel population over time. The population starts at a low point in 1992, then increases steadily from 1994 to 1997. Therefore, the population increased from 1994-1997.

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  • 7. 

    All of the following are examples of limiting factors except:

    • Time

    • Food & water

    • Space

    • Weather

    Correct Answer
    A. Time
    Explanation
    The given options all represent factors that can limit the growth or survival of a population. Time, however, is not a limiting factor in itself. It is a measure of duration or the progression of events, and does not directly restrict the resources or conditions available to a population. While time can indirectly influence factors such as food availability or weather patterns, it is not a limiting factor on its own.

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  • 8. 

    Counting all the members of a ___________ is a method of __________________. 

    • Population and direct observation

    • Birth rate and population

    • Population and indirect observation

    • Death rate and population density

    Correct Answer
    A. Population and direct observation
    Explanation
    Counting all the members of a population is a method of directly observing the population. This involves physically counting or surveying every individual in the population to determine the total number. Direct observation allows for an accurate and comprehensive assessment of the population size, providing valuable data for various studies and research.

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  • 9. 

    The organism that does the killing of another is the:

    • Commensalism

    • Parasite/parasitism

    • Host

    • Competition

    • Mutualism

    • Niche

    • Prey

    • Predator

    • Adaptations

    • Predation

    • Symbiosis

    • Natural selection

    Correct Answer
    A. Predator
    Explanation
    A predator is an organism that kills and feeds on another organism. Predators have adaptations that allow them to catch and kill their prey, such as sharp teeth or claws, keen senses, and speed. They play an important role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems by controlling the population of their prey species. Natural selection is the process by which certain traits become more or less common in a population over time, and it can result in the evolution of adaptations that make predators more effective at killing their prey.

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  • 10. 
    What does the basic formula for mark and recapture mean? - ProProfs

    What does the basic formula for mark and recapture mean?

    • The population sample equals the number marked multiplied by the sum of the unmarked and recaptured divided by the number recaptured

    • The population sample equals the number marked minus the sum of the unmarked and recaptured divided by the number recaptured.

    • The population sample equals the number marked divided by the number recaptured

    • The population sample equals the number unmarked plus the recaptured divided by the number recaptured

    Correct Answer
    A. The population sample equals the number marked multiplied by the sum of the unmarked and recaptured divided by the number recaptured
    Explanation
    The basic formula for mark and recapture means that the population sample is equal to the number of marked individuals multiplied by the sum of the unmarked and recaptured individuals, divided by the number of recaptured individuals. This formula is used to estimate the size of a population by marking a certain number of individuals, releasing them back into the population, and then recapturing a sample of individuals later on. By comparing the number of marked individuals in the recaptured sample to the total number of individuals in the recaptured sample, an estimate of the population size can be calculated.

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  • 11. 

    If two species inhabit the same niche, one of the species will eventually die off as there is ____________ between organisms trying to survive with the same resources.

    • Natural selection

    • Prey

    • Predator

    • Adaptations

    • Predation

    • Symbiosis

    • Mutualism

    • Niche

    • Commensalism

    • Parasite/parasitism

    • Host

    • Competition

    Correct Answer
    A. Competition
    Explanation
    When two species occupy the same niche, they are competing for the same resources such as food, water, and shelter. This competition creates a struggle for survival, as there are limited resources available. Over time, the species that is better adapted to utilizing these resources will have a competitive advantage and will be more successful in reproducing and surviving. The other species, lacking these adaptations, will struggle to find enough resources to survive and eventually die off. Competition is therefore a key factor in determining which species will thrive in a given environment.

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  • 12. 

    Changes in population may occur when a group moves into a population. This is called:

    • Direct observation

    • Limiting factor

    • Birth rate

    • Population

    • Indirect observation

    • Death rate

    • Population density

    • Carrying capacity

    • Estimate

    • Emigration

    • Ecology

    • Mark and recapture

    • Immigration

    • Space

    • Food

    • Sample

    • Weather

    • Water

    Correct Answer
    A. Immigration
    Explanation
    Immigration refers to the movement of individuals into a population. It is one of the factors that can cause changes in population size. When individuals from a different group or population move into a specific population, it can result in an increase in the population size. This influx of new individuals can affect various aspects of the population dynamics, such as the birth rate, death rate, population density, and carrying capacity. Therefore, immigration is the correct answer in this context.

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  • 13. 

    Identify this method of estimating populations:  Red wolves are tagged, released and checked systematically.

    • Direct observation

    • Limiting factor

    • Birth rate

    • Population

    • Indirect observation

    • Death rate

    • Population density

    • Carrying capacity

    • Estimate

    • Emigration

    • Ecology

    • Mark and recapture

    • Immigration

    • Space

    • Food

    • Sample

    • Weather

    • Water

    Correct Answer
    A. Mark and recapture
    Explanation
    The method described in the question, where red wolves are tagged, released, and checked systematically, is known as mark and recapture. This method involves marking a sample of individuals, releasing them back into the population, and then recapturing a second sample at a later time. By comparing the number of marked individuals in the second sample to the total number of individuals, an estimate of the population size can be calculated.

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  • 14. 

    Identify this method of estimating populations: Bottlenose dolphins are tagged, released and checked systematically.

    • Direct observation

    • Limiting factor

    • Birth rate

    • Population

    • Indirect observation

    • Death rate

    • Population density

    • Carrying capacity

    • Estimate

    • Emigration

    • Ecology

    • Mark and recapture

    • Immigration

    • Space

    • Food

    • Sample

    • Weather

    • Water

    Correct Answer
    A. Mark and recapture
    Explanation
    The method of estimating populations described here involves tagging and releasing bottlenose dolphins and then systematically checking for recaptures. This technique is known as mark and recapture, where a sample of individuals is marked and released, and then a second sample is taken to determine the proportion of marked individuals. This proportion is used to estimate the total population size.

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  • 15. 

    What is a sampling estimate?

    • A sampling estimate is an approximation of a number based on reasonable assumptions.

    • The practice of mark and recapture.

    • Uses mathematical formulas to estimate the total population.

    • A direct count of the organisms in a population.

    Correct Answer
    A. A sampling estimate is an approximation of a number based on reasonable assumptions.
    Explanation
    A sampling estimate is an approximation of a number based on reasonable assumptions. It is a method used to estimate a population parameter by taking a sample from the population and making inferences about the entire population based on the characteristics observed in the sample. This approach is commonly used when it is not feasible or practical to count or measure every individual in the population. By using statistical techniques, a sampling estimate provides a reliable and efficient way to estimate population parameters with a certain level of confidence.

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  • 16. 
    Use the graph to answer the changes in squirrel population questions. What was the size of the population the year the number of squirrels reached its lowest point? - ProProfs

    Use the graph to answer the changes in squirrel population questions. What was the size of the population the year the number of squirrels reached its lowest point?

    • 200 squirrels

    • 2 squirrels

    • 3 squirrels

    • 300 squirrels

    Correct Answer
    A. 200 squirrels
    Explanation
    The correct answer is 200 squirrels. This can be determined by looking at the graph and finding the point where the number of squirrels reaches its lowest point. At that point, the population size is 200 squirrels.

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  • 17. 

    When groups leave or are separated from their organism population to pursue a need, it is called:

    • Direct observation

    • Limiting factor

    • Birth rate

    • Population

    • Indirect observation

    • Death rate

    • Population density

    • Carrying capacity

    • Estimate

    • Emigration

    • Ecology

    • Mark and recapture

    • Immigration

    • Space

    • Food

    • Sample

    • Weather

    • Water

    Correct Answer
    A. Emigration
    Explanation
    Emigration refers to the movement of individuals or groups out of a population or organism population to pursue a need. It is the opposite of immigration, which is the movement of individuals or groups into a population. Emigration can occur when there is a lack of resources, competition, or unfavorable conditions in the current habitat, prompting individuals or groups to leave in search of better opportunities elsewhere.

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  • 18. 

    What is it when one organism kills another organism for food energy: 

    • Niche

    • Prey

    • Predator

    • Adaptations

    • Predation

    • Symbiosis

    • Natural selection

    • Commensalism

    • Parasite/parasitism

    • Host

    • Competition

    • Mutualism

    Correct Answer
    A. Predation
    Explanation
    Predation refers to the act of one organism killing another organism for food energy. This relationship is characterized by a predator that hunts and kills its prey. The predator benefits from consuming the prey, while the prey is negatively affected by being killed. Predation is a common ecological interaction that helps regulate populations and maintain balance in ecosystems.

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  • 19. 

    What is the difference between a species and a population?

    • A species is a group of organisms that are physically similar and can mate with each other and produce offspring that can also mate and reproduce. A population is all the members of one species that live in a particular area.

    • A species is a group of organisms that are physically similar and can mate with each other and produce offspring that can also mate and reproduce. A population is more than one specie of organism.

    • A species is made up of more than one kind of organism that lives in a particular area. A population is all the members of one species that live in a particular area.

    • A species is the role an organism has in its habitat. A population is the multiple roles of one species in a particular area.

    Correct Answer
    A. A species is a group of organisms that are physically similar and can mate with each other and produce offspring that can also mate and reproduce. A population is all the members of one species that live in a particular area.
    Explanation
    The correct answer explains that a species is a group of organisms that share physical similarities and have the ability to mate and produce offspring that can also reproduce. On the other hand, a population refers to all the individuals of a particular species that live in a specific geographical area. This explanation accurately distinguishes between the two terms, highlighting the criteria for defining a species and the scope of a population.

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  • 20. 

    All of the following are examples of limiting factors for populations except:

    • Space

    • Food

    • Emigration

    • Weather

    Correct Answer
    A. Emigration
    Explanation
    Emigration is not a limiting factor for populations because it refers to the movement of individuals out of a population, which can actually help alleviate population pressure. Limiting factors are factors that restrict the growth or size of a population, such as limited space, food availability, and adverse weather conditions. These factors can lead to competition for resources, reduced reproductive success, and increased mortality rates, ultimately limiting population growth.

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  • 21. 

    Why are there fewer organisms at the top of the food chain?

    • There are usually few organisms at the top because there is a limited amount of energy available at that level of a food web.

    • There are usually few organisms at the top because the organisms at the top of the food chain care for their young longer than organisms lower on the food chain.

    • There are usually few organisms at the top because the organisms at the top of the food chain consume are omnivores that consume diverse kinds of organisms that are lower on the food chain.

    • There are usually few organisms at the top because the organisms at the top of the food chain are scavengers consuming what other organisms have left behind.

    Correct Answer
    A. There are usually few organisms at the top because there is a limited amount of energy available at that level of a food web.
    Explanation
    The correct answer is that there are usually few organisms at the top because there is a limited amount of energy available at that level of a food web. This is because energy is lost as it moves up the food chain through processes such as respiration, digestion, and heat loss. As a result, there is less energy available to support a large number of organisms at the top of the food chain.

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  • 22. 

    A rabbit, possum and an owl are all members of the same:

    • Species

    • Niche

    • Community

    • Population

    Correct Answer
    A. Community
    Explanation
    A community refers to a group of different species living in the same area and interacting with each other. In this case, the rabbit, possum, and owl are all different species, but they are living in the same area and are likely to interact with each other in some way. Therefore, they can be considered as members of the same community.

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  • 23. 

    The role of an organism in its habitat: 

    • Niche

    • Prey

    • Predator

    • Adaptations

    • Predation

    • Symbiosis

    • Natural selection

    • Commensalism

    • Parasite/parasitism

    • Host

    • Competition

    • Mutualism

    Correct Answer
    A. Niche
    Explanation
    The role of an organism in its habitat is referred to as its niche. A niche includes the specific resources an organism uses, the way it interacts with other organisms, and its role in the ecosystem. It encompasses the organism's habitat, its food sources, its behavior, and its interactions with other species. The niche of an organism is important for its survival and reproduction, as it determines how the organism fits into the ecosystem and how it obtains the resources it needs.

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  • 24. 

    Which method would you use to determine the number of mushrooms growing on the floor of a large forest?

    • Sampling

    • Mark and recapture

    • Indirect observation

    • Direct observation

    Correct Answer
    A. Sampling
    Explanation
    Sampling would be the most appropriate method to determine the number of mushrooms growing on the floor of a large forest. This involves randomly selecting a smaller area or subset of the forest floor and counting the number of mushrooms within that area. By extrapolating the data from the sample to the entire forest floor, an estimate of the total number of mushrooms can be obtained. This method is efficient and practical for large areas, as it reduces the time and effort required to count every single mushroom.

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  • 25. 

    The number of individuals in an area of a specific size:

    • Direct observation

    • Limiting factor

    • Birth rate

    • Population

    • Indirect observation

    • Death rate

    • Population density

    • Carrying capacity

    • Estimate

    • Emigration

    • Ecology

    • Mark and recapture

    • Immigration

    • Space

    • Food

    • Sample

    • Weather

    • Water

    Correct Answer
    A. Population density
    Explanation
    Population density refers to the number of individuals in a given area of a specific size. It is a measure of how crowded or dispersed a population is within a particular area. It is calculated by dividing the total population of an area by its land area. Population density helps in understanding the distribution and concentration of individuals within a population and is an important factor in studying ecology and understanding the dynamics of a population.

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  • 26. 

    Check the conditions that can limit the growth of a population:

    • Temperature and rainfall

    • Seasons and rainfall

    • Rainfall and humidity

    • Weather and seasons

    Correct Answer
    A. Temperature and rainfall
    Explanation
    Temperature and rainfall are two important factors that can limit the growth of a population. Both temperature and rainfall affect the availability of resources such as food and water, which are essential for the survival and reproduction of organisms. Extreme temperatures can be detrimental to the survival of many species, while inadequate or excessive rainfall can affect the availability of water and nutrients. Therefore, variations in temperature and rainfall can directly impact the population size and distribution of organisms in an ecosystem.

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  • 27. 

    An environmental factor that causes a population to decrease is a ____________.

    • Direct observation

    • Limiting factor

    • Birth rate

    • Population

    • Indirect observation

    • Death rate

    • Population density

    • Carrying capacity

    • Estimate

    • Emigration

    • Ecology

    • Mark and recapture

    • Immigration

    • Space

    • Food

    • Sample

    • Weather

    • Water

    Correct Answer
    A. Limiting factor
    Explanation
    A limiting factor is an environmental factor that restricts the growth or size of a population. It can be any resource or condition that is in limited supply, such as food, water, space, or weather conditions. When these limiting factors become scarce or unfavorable, they can cause a decrease in the population by reducing birth rates, increasing death rates, or causing individuals to emigrate. Therefore, a limiting factor is an environmental factor that can cause a population to decrease.

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  • 28. 

    When might an ecologist use indirect observation to estimate a population?

    • Indirect observation may be used when a population is small or difficult to find.

    • Indirect observation may be used when a population is located in a remote area that the scientist cannot get to.

    • Indirect observation may be used to mark and recapture organisms.

    • Indirect observation may be used for sampling.

    Correct Answer
    A. Indirect observation may be used when a population is small or difficult to find.
    Explanation
    An ecologist might use indirect observation to estimate a population when it is small or difficult to find. This method allows the ecologist to gather information about the population without directly observing or interacting with the individuals. It can be particularly useful in situations where the population is elusive, such as with rare or endangered species, or in remote areas that are hard to access. By using indirect observation techniques, the ecologist can still gather valuable data and make estimates about the population size and characteristics.

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  • 29. 

    Counting snake holes on the river bank is a _____________________ method of determining fiddler crabs populations.

    • Direct observation

    • Limiting factor

    • Birth rate

    • Population

    • Indirect observation

    • Death rate

    • Population density

    • Carrying capacity

    • Estimate

    • Emigration

    • Ecology

    • Mark and recapture

    • Immigration

    • Space

    • Food

    • Sample

    • Weather

    • Water

    Correct Answer
    A. Indirect observation
    Explanation
    Indirect observation is a method of determining fiddler crab populations by counting snake holes on the river bank. This method involves inferring the population size based on indirect evidence, such as the presence of snake holes, which are known to be used by fiddler crabs. It is a practical approach when direct observation is not feasible or when the population is too large or spread out to be counted directly. By counting snake holes, researchers can estimate the population size and gather valuable information about fiddler crab populations.

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  • 30. 

    Which of the following is NOT a density-dependent factor that can influence population size?

    • Competition for resources 

    • Predation 

    • Disease outbreak 

    • Natural disasters

    Correct Answer
    A. Natural disasters
    Explanation
    Density-dependent factors are those that influence population size in relation to the population's density. Competition for resources, predation, and disease outbreaks are all density-dependent factors, as their effects are more pronounced when the population is crowded. Natural disasters, on the other hand, are density-independent factors, as their impact is not influenced by the population's density.

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  • Jan 29, 2025
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Jun 03, 2017
    Quiz Created by
    Rhaveno
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