A population is a collection of individuals of the same species that live together in a region. Population ecology is the study of populations (especially population abundance) and how they change over time. Crucial to this study are the various interactions between a population and its resources. Studies on simple models of interacting species is the main focus this simulation oriented lab. Lab I focuses on introduction of principles of population ecology for UG/PG students.
Analyze Population Growth: To model and compare continuous, discrete, and logistic population growth, understanding how carrying capacity and breeding seasons affect population density.
Evaluate Species Interactions: To investigate interspecific competition, competitive exclusion, and coexistence, and to observe how these interactions define species borders.
Apply Matrix Population Models: To project population changes and demographics over time using Age-Structured and Stage-Structured Leslie Matrices.
Understand Spatial & Trophic Dynamics: To simulate complex ecological scenarios including metapopulation dynamics (Levin’s Model), parasitoid-host interactions, and the spatial invasion of pest populations.
Implement Conservation Strategies: To apply population dynamics modeling to the real-world management and recovery of endangered species.