All Flashcards
Define r-selected species.
Species with a high rate of reproduction, many offspring, and little parental care.
Define K-selected species.
Species that live near the carrying capacity, few offspring, and lots of parental care.
Define biotic potential.
The maximum reproductive capacity of a species under optimal conditions.
Define pioneer species.
The first species to colonize a barren or disturbed environment.
Define invasive species.
A non-native species that spreads rapidly and causes harm to the environment or human health.
Define carrying capacity.
The maximum number of individuals of a species that an environment can support.
Define ecological succession.
The process of change in the species structure of an ecological community over time.
What is the effect of introducing an r-selected species into a K-selected dominated environment?
The r-selected species can become invasive due to its high reproductive rate and ability to quickly colonize new areas, outcompeting native species.
What is the effect of habitat destruction on K-selected species?
Habitat destruction can severely impact K-selected species due to their low reproductive rates and high dependence on specific resources, potentially leading to population decline or extinction.
What is the effect of climate change on r-selected species?
Climate change can alter the distribution and abundance of r-selected species, as they are often more adaptable to changing conditions and can quickly exploit new opportunities.
What is the effect of overfishing on K-selected fish species?
Overfishing can decimate K-selected fish populations due to their slow growth rates and late maturity, making them vulnerable to depletion.
What is the effect of introducing a predator on a population of r-selected species?
The r-selected species population will decrease rapidly due to the new predation pressure.
What is the effect of a disease outbreak on a population of K-selected species?
The K-selected species population will decrease rapidly due to their low number of offspring and longer generation times.
What is the effect of high biotic potential in r-selected species?
Rapid population growth and potential for invasive behavior.
What is the effect of low parental investment in r-selected species?
High offspring mortality and reliance on sheer numbers for survival.
What is the effect of high competition in K-selected species?
Slower population growth, increased specialization, and adaptation to stable environments.
What is the effect of extensive parental care in K-selected species?
Higher offspring survival rates and greater investment in individual offspring.
How does being r-selected affect a species' likelihood of becoming invasive?
Increases the likelihood due to rapid reproduction and adaptability.
How does being K-selected affect a species' vulnerability to invasive species?
Increases vulnerability due to slower reproduction and higher resource competition.