Question

What is “effective population size”? Using hypothetical examples and numerical values, discuss the relevance of the concept of effective population size in planning and implementation of conservation programs. The effective population size (Ne) is related to the census number of individuals as follows. Ne = (4NmNf)/(Nm + Nf) 1/Ne = 1/t (sum of 1/Ni) is same as Ne = t/(sum of 1/Ni) Nm = number of males, Nf = number of females, Ni=population size at a given generation, t = number of generations?

Answer 1

It is the size of population(minimum) is required to have an idealized population would need to have for equal parameters and interests as equal to a real population in the same conditions.

For eg. In a population of 40 tigers 20 are male and 20 female that are capable for interbreed, the population. Size will be Ne = 4×20×20/20+20 = 40.

Thus, the ratio is 1:1 ,,Thus ideal poplation size is equal to expected population size. Therefore same is the effective population.