Summary
A set of spatially separated populations linked by dispersal, with local extinction and recolonisation.
In depth
Levins's model: patches go extinct locally but are recolonised. Source-sink dynamics have productive source patches supplying sinks. Connectivity (corridors) is important.
Persistence depends on balance between extinction and colonisation. Habitat loss reduces connectivity, raising extinction risk. Corridors help.
Key idea: local extinction is not regional extinction if recolonisation occurs.
Frequently asked questions
What is Metapopulations?
A set of spatially separated populations linked by dispersal, with local extinction and recolonisation.
Which area of biology covers Metapopulations, and how advanced is it?
Metapopulations is one of the 54 topics in Ecology. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Island Biogeography, Landscape Ecology, Allee Effect.
Can you give an example of Metapopulations?
Butterflies such as the Glanville fritillary in Finland.
What should I learn before Metapopulations?
Work through the Beginner topics in Ecology first, such as Ecology, Ecosystem, Biotic and Abiotic Factors, then return to Metapopulations. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to Metapopulations?
The closest topics to Metapopulations are Island Biogeography, Landscape Ecology, Allee Effect, Lotka-Volterra Models. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Metapopulations?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Metapopulations. To practise the whole of Ecology, use the Ecology quiz.
How is Metapopulations different from Island Biogeography?
Metapopulations: A set of spatially separated populations linked by dispersal, with local extinction and recolonisation. Island Biogeography: Predicts species richness on islands from island size and distance to the mainland. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Metapopulations step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Island Biogeography and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Ecology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.