Lions live in groups called prides. lion populations would most likely fall in which category of population distribution?
a. even
b. random
c. clumped
d. density select the best answer from the choices provided

The right answer is C. Clumped (grouped).

The grouped distribution is the most common type of dispersion found in nature. In the grouped distribution, the distance between neighboring individuals is reduced to a minimum. This type of distribution is found in environments that are characterized by irregularly distributed resources. Animals need certain resources to survive, and when these resources become scarce during certain times of the year, animals tend to "cluster" around crucial resources. Individuals can be grouped in an area due to social factors such as herds and family groups. The organisms that generally serve as prey form grouped distributions in areas where they can hide and detect predators with relative ease.

Lions come under the clumped category of population distribution. The individual’s dispersion pattern in a population determines its interaction with one another and with the environment.

Further Explanation:

The way of spatial arrangement of a taxon is called the species distribution. The individuals in a population are distributed in a clumped pattern on a large scale. It is the most recurrent type of dispersion seen in nature. The distance between adjacent individuals is reduced in clumped distribution.

The environment comprising of the patchy resources shows this type of distribution. Individuals require certain types of resources for their survival. The limitation of these resources during a specific time of the year leads to the clumping of the animals or individuals together for the resources. Individuals might also get clumped together as a result of social factors like selfish herds.

Clumped distribution is also seen as a mechanism in species to trap prey or to utilize the limited resources. For example, during the dry season in Africa due to the presence of patchy resources lions and other animals clump around the only water source in that particular area.

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Answer Details:

Grade: High School

Subject: Ecology

Chapter: Species Distribution

Keywords:

Clumped distribution, species distribution, patchy resources, selfish herds, animal clumping, limited resources, prey.