Metapopulation Theory

Question

Metapopulation theory:
A) Had its genesis with island biogeography
B) Refers primarily to populations within patches
C) Has lost favor among most ecologists
D) None of the above

Accepted Answer

Metapopulation theory was first developed by ecologists studying island biogeography, specifically the dynamics of populations on small, isolated islands. While metapopulation theory can refer to populations within patches (B), it is not limited to this and can refer to more complex systems of connected populations. Finally, metapopulation theory is still an important area of research in ecology and has not lost favor among most ecologists (C is incorrect).