K-selected species
Definition
K-selected species are organisms that have low reproductive rates, produce fewer offspring, and have longer lifespans. They typically inhabit stable environments where resources are consistently available.
Analogy
Picture k-selected species as "fine-dining" organisms. They have fewer offspring, invest more time and energy into each individual, and have longer lifespans - just like how fine dining restaurants focus on quality over quantity.
Related terms
Carrying capacity: The maximum number of individuals of a species that an ecosystem can support sustainably.
Life history strategy: The overall pattern of growth, development, reproduction, and survival traits exhibited by a species.
Keystone species: A species that has a disproportionately large impact on its environment relative to its abundance, often playing a critical role in maintaining ecosystem balance.
"K-selected species" appears in:
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Practice Questions (8)
K-selected species invest a lot of _____ into raising their offspring.
How do r-selected and K-selected species differ in terms of their competition for resources?
Compared to families of r-selected species, K-selected species have a _____ family size.
What are some examples of K-selected species?
K-selected species tend to consist of terrestrial mammals.
K-selected species tend to reproduce once their habitat reaches carrying capacity.
How do r-selected and K-selected species differ in terms of their average size?
Which type of survivorship curve is most likely associated with K-selected species?
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