Leslie Matrices

Leslie matrices are mathematical tools used in population ecology to model how a population changes over time. They consider different age groups and how each contributes to birth rates and survival. Each row of the matrix represents an age group, while columns detail the number of offspring produced or survival rates. By applying the Leslie matrix repeatedly, researchers can predict future population sizes, helping to understand dynamics like growth, decline, or stability. This method is valuable for wildlife management, conservation efforts, and studying human populations, providing insights into how different factors affect demographic trends.