Answer: Population distributions may be described as <em>random, uniform</em><em> or </em><em>clustered.</em>
Explanation:
In a specified region, a population comprises any number of members of the same species. Populations are described by sizes- the number of individuals; densities- individuals in a set space (per unit area); and distribution- the dispersal or non dispersal of individuals (spread out or clumped). Population distributions may be described in three ways:
- Random: the distribution pattern is haphazard, with no regular spacing; individuals grow independently of each other without competing and resources are consistent. <em>E.g. dandelion seed dispersal by wind </em>
- Uniform: individuals are evenly spaced in a predictable pattern; there may be some interaction and ideally, spaces between them are maximized in order to ensure access to limited nutrients and resources.<em> E.g. human farming- cornfields, orchards; allelopathy in plants like purple sage, which secretes chemicals to prevent the growth of other plants nearby</em>
- Clumped: there is less distance between neighboring organisms and these individuals cluster together. This pattern is most common in environments where resources are scarce, or the species is dependent on social interactions.<em> E.g. lions are highly social and hunt in prides in the wild</em>
