Comparing Extinction Times in Populations
Author Information
Author(s): Robert Alexandre
Primary Institution: Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle
Hypothesis
How do demographic and genetic factors influence metapopulation extinction times?
Conclusion
Integrating demographic and genetic factors provides a more accurate assessment of species viability.
Supporting Evidence
- Demographic and genetic extinction times were only moderately correlated.
- The demo-genetic extinction time is often lower than both demographic and genetic extinction times.
- Ecological variables had similar qualitative effects on demographic and genetic viabilities.
Takeaway
This study looks at how different factors affect the survival of animal populations. It finds that both how many animals there are and their genetic health matter for their chances of survival.
Methodology
The study used stochastic simulation models to compute extinction times based on demographic, genetic, and demo-genetic factors.
Limitations
The study's results may not apply to all species or environments due to the specific models and assumptions used.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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