Q.44 Which of the following is TRUE for 𝑲-strategist species?

(A) Produce relatively large number of offspring

(B) Population often grow exponentially

(C) Provide relatively little or no parental care to offspring

(D) Occur in stable and predictable habitats

The correct answer is (D) Occur in stable and predictable habitats. K-strategist species follow a reproductive strategy adapted to environments near carrying capacity, emphasizing quality over quantity in offspring. This contrasts with r-strategists, which prioritize rapid reproduction in unstable settings.

Option Analysis

• (A) Produce relatively large number of offspring: False. K-strategists produce few offspring to invest more resources per individual, unlike r-strategists that produce many.

• (B) Population often grow exponentially: False. Their populations remain stable near carrying capacity (K), showing logistic growth rather than exponential.

• (C) Provide relatively little or no parental care to offspring: False. They offer extensive parental care to boost offspring survival in competitive settings.

• (D) Occur in stable and predictable habitats: True. These species thrive where resources are consistent and competition is high.

K-strategist species represent a key concept in ecology for CSIR NET Life Sciences aspirants, focusing on reproductive strategies in stable environments. These species maintain populations near the ecosystem’s carrying capacity (K), prioritizing offspring survival over quantity.

Core Traits

K-strategist species exhibit:

• Few offspring with high investment per individual.

• Extended parental care and delayed maturity.

• Long lifespans and large body sizes.

• Preference for predictable habitats with high competition.

Examples include elephants, humans, and whales, which dominate climax communities.

r vs K Comparison

This table highlights why option (D) aligns perfectly with K-strategist species in CSIR NET contexts.