Which of the following is a characteristic of species following k-selection?

Which of the following is a characteristic of species following k-selection?

• A. High reproductive rate
• B. Shorter life spans
• C. More parental care
• D. Rapid population growth

Answer: (C)

Species that exhibit k-selection are characterized by traits that favor competitive success in environments where resources are limited and where population sizes are at or near the carrying capacity. A key characteristic of k-selected species is that they typically invest more energy into raising fewer offspring, thus resulting in a higher degree of parental care. This approach enhances the chances that each surviving offspring can reach maturity and reproduce. In contrast, species that have a high reproductive rate and rapid population growth, along with shorter life spans, are indicative of r-selection. These traits represent an entirely different reproductive strategy that focuses on producing a high number of offspring with less investment in each individual. K-selection, therefore, leans towards a balanced strategy of survival and competitiveness, emphasizing the nurturing and survival of fewer offspring rather than the quantity of offspring produced.

Species that exhibit k-selection are characterized by traits that favor competitive success in environments where resources are limited and where population sizes are at or near the carrying capacity. A key characteristic of k-selected species is that they typically invest more energy into raising fewer offspring, thus resulting in a higher degree of parental care. This approach enhances the chances that each surviving offspring can reach maturity and reproduce.

In contrast, species that have a high reproductive rate and rapid population growth, along with shorter life spans, are indicative of r-selection. These traits represent an entirely different reproductive strategy that focuses on producing a high number of offspring with less investment in each individual. K-selection, therefore, leans towards a balanced strategy of survival and competitiveness, emphasizing the nurturing and survival of fewer offspring rather than the quantity of offspring produced.