How does mortality rate affect population growth and stability?

Mortality rate directly impacts population growth and stability by reducing the number of individuals in a population.

In more detail, the mortality rate is a measure of the number of deaths in a population, typically expressed as deaths per 1,000 individuals per year. It is a key factor in determining the rate of population growth and stability. If the mortality rate is high, the population will decrease unless the birth rate is significantly higher. Conversely, if the mortality rate is low, the population will increase, assuming the birth rate remains constant or increases.

Population growth is the change in a population over time, and it is influenced by birth rates, death rates (mortality), immigration, and emigration. When the mortality rate is high, it can lead to a decrease in population growth. This is because the number of individuals dying exceeds the number of new individuals being born or immigrating into the population. On the other hand, a low mortality rate can lead to an increase in population growth, as the number of individuals being born or immigrating into the population exceeds the number of deaths.

Population stability refers to a state where the size of a population remains relatively constant over time. A high mortality rate can disrupt population stability, leading to a decline in population size. This can result in a skewed age distribution, with fewer young individuals to replace the older ones as they die. This can have long-term effects on the population, as it may struggle to recover its numbers.

Furthermore, a high mortality rate can also lead to a decrease in genetic diversity within a population. This is because fewer individuals are left to reproduce, leading to a smaller gene pool. This can make the population more vulnerable to diseases and less adaptable to environmental changes.

In contrast, a low mortality rate can also disrupt population stability if it leads to overpopulation. Overpopulation can result in increased competition for resources, environmental degradation, and a higher susceptibility to diseases. Therefore, an optimal balance between birth and death rates is crucial for maintaining population stability.