A small population of 100 organisms is only able to contribute 25 offspring to the next generation, but during that time, 30 individuals in the population die. In the next iteration, the remaining 95 individuals generate only 20 offspring, but during that time, 30 individuals of the population die. The remaining 85 individuals generate only 15 offspring, but during that time, 30 individuals of the population die. Which of the following terms best describes what this population is experiencing?
A) Ineffective population size
B) Negative exponential growth
C) Carrying capacity
D) Extinction vortex

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The population is experiencing an extinction vortex, where the population size decreases progressively due to a combination of low reproduction rates and high mortality rates, leading to a downward spiral towards extinction.

A Small Population of 100 Organisms Is Only Able to Contribute