smallpopulation
Smallpopulation is a term used in ecology and conservation biology to describe a population with a small number of individuals or a low effective population size. Such populations are more vulnerable to random genetic and demographic fluctuations, which can reduce genetic diversity, increase inbreeding, and diminish adaptive potential.
A small population can arise from habitat loss, fragmentation, overexploitation, climate change, or colonization from a
Consequences include inbreeding depression, reduced fertility and juvenile survival, and reduced ability to respond to environmental
Conservation responses focus on increasing numbers and maintaining genetic health. Strategies include habitat protection and restoration,
Examples show the concept in practice. The Florida panther and some cheetah populations have benefited from