Animal species that exhibit long gestation periods, give birth to relatively large offspring, and maintain population numbers close to the habitat carrying capacity are called _______ species.(Outcome #7b)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

K-selected species are known for their ability to produce few, but larger offspring that have a higher survival rate due to the extensive maternal investment required in their development. These species also tend to have longer gestation periods and maintain populations close to the carrying capacity of their habitat. Therefore, option A is the best choice. Option B, r-selected species, is the opposite of K-selected, characterized by producing many, smaller offspring with little parental investment. Option C, unselected species, is not a recognized term in ecology.

Animal Species That Exhibit Long Gestation Periods, Give Birth to Relatively