A population with a larger proportion of older individuals than younge...
A population with large number of older individuals than younger ones is likely to decline since older individuals do not take part in reproduction.
A population with a larger proportion of older individuals than younge...
Understanding Population Dynamics
A population with a larger proportion of older individuals is likely to face specific dynamics that influence its growth and stability.
Reasons for Option C: Grow Smaller and May Stabilize
- Higher Mortality Rates: Older individuals typically have shorter life expectancies, leading to increased mortality rates within this demographic. As these individuals age and pass away, the population will naturally decline.
- Lower Birth Rates: Populations with a higher proportion of older individuals often have lower birth rates, as older individuals are less likely to contribute to population growth. When fewer young individuals are born, the population's potential for growth diminishes.
- Age Structure Impact: The age structure of a population significantly influences its future growth. A population with more older individuals and fewer younger ones tends to transition towards stabilization or decline as the reproductive base shrinks.
- Potential for Stabilization: As the population decreases, it may reach a point of stabilization at a smaller size, given that the birth rates remain low and death rates may fluctuate based on health and environmental factors.
Conclusion
In summary, a population skewed towards older individuals is likely to experience a decline due to higher mortality and lower birth rates, potentially stabilizing at a smaller size. Hence, option C accurately reflects the expected demographic trends in such populations.