Q.2 The important characteristic of k-selected population is
(A). convex survivorship curve
(B). low fecundity
(C). exist close to their carrying capacity
(D). intraspecific competition
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

1. (A), (B) and (D) only.
2. (A), (B) and (C) only.
3. (A), (B), (C) and (D).
4. (B), (C) and (D) only.

K-selected populations exhibit stable life history strategies adapted to environments near carrying capacity. The correct answer is 4. (B), (C), and (D) only.

Correct Answer

The right choice is 4. (B), (C) and (D) only. K-selected species prioritize quality over quantity in reproduction, maintaining steady populations close to the environment’s carrying capacity (K). They show low fecundity, high parental investment, strong competition, and typically Type I survivorship curves (convex), but the combination excludes (A) in this context as it’s not universally defining.

Option Breakdown

(A) Convex Survivorship Curve

K-selected species often display Type I survivorship curves, which appear convex—high early survival followed by late-life mortality due to extensive parental care. However, this trait varies and isn’t the most definitive characteristic compared to others.

(B) Low Fecundity

True for K-selected populations. They produce few offspring per reproductive event to invest energy in each one’s survival, contrasting r-selected species with high fecundity.

(C) Exist Close to Carrying Capacity

Core trait. These populations stabilize near K, the maximum sustainable size, due to density-dependent regulation in predictable environments.

(D) Intraspecific Competition

Prevalent. High density near K intensifies competition within the species for limited resources, favoring competitive traits over rapid reproduction.