Minimum viable population

Minimum viable population (MVP) is a lower bound on the population of a species, such that it can survive in the wild. This term is commonly used in the fields of biology, ecology, and conservation biology. MVP refers to the smallest possible size at which a biological population can exist without facing extinction from natural disasters or demographic, environmental, or genetic stochasticity.[1] The term "population" is defined as a group of interbreeding individuals in similar geographic area that undergo negligible gene flow with other groups of the species.[2] Typically, MVP is used to refer to a wild population, but can also be used for ex situ conservation (Zoo populations).

A graphical representation of population growth over total population. K is the carrying capacity, and MVP is minimum viable population.
  1. ^ Holsinger, Kent (2007-09-04). "Types of Stochastic Threats". EEB310: Conservation Biology. University of Connecticut. Archived from the original on 2008-11-20. Retrieved 2007-11-04.
  2. ^ "population | Definition of population in English by Oxford Dictionaries". Oxford Dictionaries | English. Archived from the original on February 1, 2017. Retrieved 2019-06-08.