population viability analysis

Population Viability Analysis (PVA) is a method used in conservation biology to estimate the minimum viable population (MVP) of a species. The MVP is the smallest number of individuals needed for a species to persist with a certain probability over a specified time, often aiming for over 95% survival for more than 100 years.1

PVA helps prevent extinction by identifying benchmarks for population size, especially for endangered species. It uses computer simulations that incorporate factors like reproduction, dispersal, genetic variability, and environmental events (e.g., weather, disease). Different species have different MVPs due to variations in reproductive rates and habitat needs. For example, species with high reproductive rates may have lower MVPs than those with slower reproduction. PVA provides quantitative targets for conservation managers to protect species from extinction.1