Population - GCSE Biology Definition

What is a population?

In GCSE biology a population is a group of organisms of the same species living in an area at one time. Individuals living in the same population are usually able to breed together, meaning that genes are exchanged between members of a population.

Populations interact with other species in their habitat, forming a community of living organisms that is also affected by non-living (abiotic) factors in the environment. Some factors may contribute to population growth, e.g. an increase in food availability would decrease death rates and increase reproduction, resulting in a growing population, while other factors, such as disease, may cause a population to shrink.

Biologists can study populations of living organisms using sampling techniques such as quadrats and transects.