Which of the following best describes a population in ecological terms?

• A. A group of similar ecosystems sharing the same climate
• B. A group of individuals of the same species living in the same area at the same time
• C. A community of organisms and their physical environment
• D. All the different species living in a particular area

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the term 'population' in ecological terms. A population refers to a group of individuals of the same species that live in the same area at the same time and interact with one another.
2. Step 2: Analyze the options provided. Option 1 describes ecosystems, which are larger units that include multiple populations and their physical environment. Option 3 refers to communities, which consist of all species living in a particular area. Option 4 also describes communities, not populations.
3. Step 3: Compare the correct answer to the definition of a population. The correct answer aligns with the ecological definition of a population: 'A group of individuals of the same species living in the same area at the same time.'
4. Step 4: Eliminate the incorrect options by identifying that they describe broader ecological concepts (ecosystems or communities) rather than populations.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is the one that matches the definition of a population in ecological terms, emphasizing the importance of species, location, and time in defining a population.