Population Distribution - Population Parameters and Regulation

Dispersion or distribution refers to the pattern of distribution of individuals of a population. As shown in Figure individuals in a population may be distributed in three broad patterns;

a) Uniform,

b) Random, and

c) Clumped.

Uniform distribution is more regular than random and may occur where competition between individuals is severe or where there is antagonism which promotes even spacing. Random distribution occurs where environment is very uniform and there is no tendency to aggregate. This type of distribution is relatively rare in nature. Clumping of individuals in groups is the most common pattern. In this case the groups could be of same or of varying size.