Question

1. Suppose that populations of slimy salamanders exist as a functioning metapopulation in woodlands of Arkansas. First, discuss probable characteristics of a "functioning metapopulation" of slimy salamanders. In other words, define what is meant by "functioning metapopulation”. Then suppose that favored contiguous woodland habitat is reduced and fragmented. Among other things, population sizes of slimy salamanders are now smaller. Why are the smaller, fragmented populations more vulnerable to extinction? What conservation measures could be implemented and why would you do this? (10 pts)

Answer 1

"Metapopulation" is nothing but- A group of animals of same species are separated at the the time of travelling due to space between them . These separated animals interact with other population individually and move from one population to the other.

Characteristics :- *Colonization

*Occupancy of areas

*Reduces extinction of species.

The population of salamanders are reducing in size because the species are being erasing too fast because their habitat is effected and damaged leading to the less chances of them to survive.

Due to fragmentation these species get more into danger because they are separated from their population and left alone to survive in an unhealthy and effected habitat , and slowly one by one these organisms get extincted .

Conservative measures :- Build sanctuaries only of salamanders.

Use cloning technique to increase their population for endangered species.

Stop consumption of salamanders.