The term for the rates of birth and death in a population is population dynamics. These rates are critical indicators of population health and can influence a species' ability to thrive in its environment. The balance between birth and death rates determines population growth, stability, or decline. Understanding population dynamics helps in predicting responses to environmental changes and informs conservation efforts. By monitoring these rates, researchers can identify factors contributing to population changes, develop management strategies to enhance population viability, and strive for sustainable balance in ecosystems.