The shape of population pyramids can provide a lot of information just by looking at it. Read the chart below which describes the various types of pyramids.
Click on the name of each type to see an example.
Name | Shape | Description | What does it mean? |
Expanding | Classic pyramid/triangle | Wide base(high birth rate) and narrow top (high death rate) | An expanding pyramid represents a lower standard of living; High birth rate is due to lack of access to birth control/lack of education. High death rate is due to poor health care and nutrition. |
Stable/Stationary | 1/2 Elipse | Base width is equal to the width of reproductive years' width | Low birth rate because of good family planning and education; low death rate because of good healthcare and nutrition. |
Contracting | Pyramid contracts at the base. Sometimes called a beehive. | The base is narrower than the reproductive ages. | Low birthrate represents a well-developed country. |