Question

Which one of the following represents a true “Ecological population”?

• A. A pitcher plant and a trapped fly in it
• B. All animals that live near each other in a national park
• C. The leeches and the flatworms that live in a forest
• D. All the lions in a reserve forest

Hint:

Population = same species in one area; Community = many species together; Ecosystem = community + environment.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Definition of ecological population
An ecological population is defined as a group of individuals of the same species, living in a given area, capable of interbreeding and interacting ecologically. Step 2: Evaluate options
(A) Pitcher plant and trapped fly: This is an example of a predator-prey (interspecific interaction), not a population.
(B) All animals in a national park: This is a community (different species together), not a population.
(C) Leeches and flatworms: Again, two different species $⇒$ a community, not a population.
(D) All lions in a reserve forest: Same species (Panthera leo), same place, capable of interbreeding $⇒$ true ecological population.
Hence, the correct option is (D).