The Estimation of Biological Populations

Abstract

The problem of estimating populations of biological organisms is studied. Direct sampling by the tag-and-sample method (mark and release individuals, sample and note proportion marked) is discussed. Inverse procedure, sampling until a predetermined marked number is secured, is also taken up. Use of regression on some easily determined character is discussed. A dichotomy, such as sex ratio, sampling before and after a selective kill, may be used. Lastly is discussed the estimation of population density from the amount of effort required to secure a given number. Probability models, assumptions and parameters are considered in discussing mathematical relations with these methods; 32 references are appended. No numerical examples are given.