What is a subset of a whole population or habitat used to estimate values called?

A subset of a whole population or habitat that is used to estimate values is commonly referred to as a sample. In ecological and biological studies, sampling is utilized to draw conclusions about a larger population without needing to study every individual. By analyzing data from this smaller group, researchers can make inferences about population characteristics, such as size, density, behavior, and genetic diversity.

Using a sample is crucial because it allows for efficient data collection and analysis, especially when dealing with large populations that would be impractical or impossible to study in their entirety. The accuracy and reliability of estimates derived from samples can be enhanced by employing rigorous sampling techniques, ensuring that the sample is representative of the broader population. This is vital in biological research, where understanding population dynamics and health can inform conservation efforts, resource management, and ecological studies.