Abstract
Several ecological processes – from population dynamics to species co‐existence – are driven by density dependence (DD) in population growth rate. Thus, to predict and manage ecological outcomes, we need a deep understanding of which factors and demographic traits drive variation in DD. In the insect pest Tribolium castaneum, we found large variation in DD across habitats but not across source populations. We modeled DD in population growth as the product of DD in fecundity and survival, experimentally estimating each parameter. Across habitats, survival parameters varied more than fecundity, including in simulations with varying parameter values. Thus, DD in survival drives variation in density‐dependent population growth. Hence, under strong density‐dependent selection, we expect evolutionary change in density‐dependent survival, provided sufficient genetic variance. Our general framework combining detailed experiments and simulations with a simple model can be used for other species to better understand the causes and consequences of density dependent population growth.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callSimilar Papers
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
