For several small populations to be maintained within a metapopulation without extinctions, which factor must be present among the populations?
A) Common ancestry
B) Same r and K values
C) Geographic proximity
D) A healthy source population
E) At least three sink populations

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A healthy source population is crucial for maintaining several small populations within a metapopulation without extinctions. This is because a healthy source population can provide individuals to recolonize habitats where local populations have gone extinct, thus maintaining the overall metapopulation dynamics.

For Several Small Populations to Be Maintained Within a Metapopulation