Question

How do population estimates using mark-recapture techniques compare to the true population size?​

Answer 1

Answer:

The Mark-Recapture technique is used to estimate the size of a population where it is impractical to count every individual. The basic idea is that you capture a small number of individuals, put a harmless mark on them, and release them back into the population. At a later date, you catch another small group, and record how many have a mark. In a small population, you are more likely to recapture marked individuals, whereas in a large population, you are less likely. This can be expressed mathematically using the equation below.

N = (M*C) / R

N = estimated Number of individuals in the population

M = number of individuals captured and Marked

C = total number Captured the second time (with and without a mark)

R= number of individuals Recaptured (those with a mark)

 

Example: Let's say that your neighborhood has a population of snails, which come out onto the sidewalk when the sprinklers come on, and the rest of the time they hide in the vegetation. If you catch 20, and mark them and, then, a week later, after they have had a chance to disperse into the population, you catch 15, and 6 have marks on them, what is the estimated size of the population?

N = (M*C) / R

N = (20 * 15) / 6

N = 50

Step-by-step explanation: