Density dependence, regulation and variability in animal populations

Abstract

This paper reviews a series of approaches to the study of density dependence, regulation and variability in terrestrial animals, by using single-species, multispecies and life table time series data. Special emphasis is given to the degree of density dependence in the level of variability, which is seldom discussed in this context, but which is conceptually related to population regulation. Broad patterns in density dependence, regulation and variability in vertebrates and arthropods are described, with some more specific results for moths and aphids. Vertebrates have generally less variable populations than arthropods, which is the only well documented, consistent pattern in population variability. The degree of density dependence of variability is negatively correlated with the average level of variability, suggesting that generally the more regulated populations are less variable. Most population studies, especially on insects, have involved outbreak species with complex dynamics, which may explain the common failures to detect density dependence in natural populations. In British moths, density dependence is less obvious in the more abundant species. The study of uncommon and rare species remains a major challenge for population ecology.