Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Population size refers to the total number of individuals of a particular species in a given area at a specific time. It is an important factor in understanding the dynamics and interactions within ecosystems.
Related terms
Population Density: This term refers to the number of individuals per unit area or volume. It helps us understand how crowded or dispersed a population is within its habitat.
Carrying Capacity: Carrying capacity is the maximum number of individuals that an environment can sustainably support over time. It depends on available resources and environmental conditions.
Growth Rate: Growth rate measures how quickly a population is increasing or decreasing over time. It takes into account birth rates, death rates, immigration, and emigration.