Allee effect

The Allee effect describes a phenomenon in ecology where a population's growth is hindered when it's too small. In simpler terms, certain species thrive better when they are in larger groups. If a population drops below a critical size, individuals may struggle to find mates, defend against predators, or gather resources, leading to a further decline. This creates a cycle where small groups can become endangered or extinct more easily because they lack the social or environmental support needed for survival. Understanding this concept is crucial for wildlife conservation and managing endangered species.