What is the primary use of the mark-release-recapture method?

The primary use of the mark-release-recapture method is indeed to estimate population size of specific species. This technique involves capturing a sample of individuals from a population, marking them in a way that does not affect their survival or behavior, and then releasing them back into their habitat. After allowing time for the marked individuals to mix back into the population, a second sample is captured to assess how many previously marked individuals are present.

By using the proportion of marked individuals in the second sample, researchers can apply mathematical models to estimate the total population size. This method is particularly useful in ecology for understanding population dynamics, aiding in conservation efforts, and managing wildlife resources.

While the other options may relate to aspects of ecological study, they do not directly align with the primary purpose of the mark-release-recapture method. Observing behavioral patterns or tracking migration patterns may involve different methodologies, such as direct observation or tracking devices, and analyzing food web interactions typically requires different approaches focused on interspecies relationships rather than population estimates.