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Multiple Choice
Population ecologists follow the fate of same-age cohorts to determine:
A
the survivorship and mortality rates within a population
B
the migration patterns of individuals
C
the rate of mutation in a population
D
the genetic diversity of a population
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of a cohort: A cohort in population ecology refers to a group of individuals of the same age within a population that are studied over time to observe their survival and mortality patterns.
Recognize the purpose of studying cohorts: Population ecologists track cohorts to analyze how many individuals survive at each age and how mortality rates change over time. This helps in constructing survivorship curves and understanding population dynamics.
Eliminate irrelevant options: Migration patterns, mutation rates, and genetic diversity are not directly studied through same-age cohorts. These aspects are typically analyzed using other methods, such as genetic studies or tracking movement patterns.
Focus on survivorship and mortality: By following a cohort, ecologists can calculate survivorship (the proportion of individuals surviving to a certain age) and mortality rates (the rate at which individuals die at different ages). These metrics are crucial for understanding population structure and predicting future trends.
Conclude that the correct answer is 'the survivorship and mortality rates within a population,' as this directly aligns with the purpose of studying same-age cohorts in population ecology.