Final answer:
The statement that metapopulations are comprised of subpopulations with independent dynamics across space is true. Metapopulations are connected by the movement of individuals, with variations including the mainland-island model and similarly-sized subpopulation models.
Step-by-step explanation:
Metapopulations are indeed composed of subpopulations that can experience independent population dynamics across space. This concept is true, as metapopulations consist of multiple local populations that are geographically separated yet connected through the dispersal of individuals.
There exist various models of metapopulations, such as the mainland-island model where a larger, central population acts as a source of individuals to other smaller populations, and the model where populations are of similar size and all have risks of local extinctions. The dynamics of metapopulations are complex, influenced by habitat quality, patch size, connectivity, and the quality of the landscape through which movements occur.