This page demonstrates the mechanics of the Leslie matrix approach. Population size in the next time step (Nt+1) is calculated by multiplying the transition matrix by the population size at the present time (Nt). The values in the top row marked in this colour are the average number of offspring produced from age class x to x+1. The cells that form the diagonal in this colour show the survivorship, i.e. the probability of surviving from age class x to age class x+1.
Each time you click the "Next Time Step" Button, the multiplication is performed and the results show in Nt+1. When the age time step is greater than zero, the population structure in Nt+1 is first moved to Nt. Total population size is also shown.