Population Densities (C/N)

Population density is population divided by total land area or water volume, as appropriate. Low densities may cause an extinction vortex and lead to further reduced fertility. This is called the Allee effect after the scientist who identified it. Examples of the causes in low population densities include: increased problems with locating sexual mates, extreme predation and increased inbreeding.

Population densities were disproportionate on Isla Sorna and were a contributing factor in the conclusion that the dinosaurs would eventually go extinct. Velociraptors were an example of an unbalanced species that was on the verge of an extinction vortex due to their penchant for killing each other and lack of infant population. They were also a primary factor in affecting the population densities of the other species on the island due to their large pack size that required plentiful prey and controlled rival carnivore behavior.