Question

Explain how the method of mark and recapture works to determine population size.

Answer 1

The method of mark and recapture involves capturing and marking a sample of individuals in a population, then releasing them back into the population. After a set amount of time, a second sample of individuals is captured, and the number of marked individuals in this second sample is recorded. By using mathematical formulas, estimates can be made of the proportion of marked individuals in the population, which can then be used to estimate the total population size. This method relies on the assumption that the marked individuals mix randomly with the rest of the population and have an equal chance of being recaptured during the second sampling period.