Question

potential population growth is rapid in which of the following?
a l - selected species
b r - selected species
c h - selected species
d k - selected species

Explanation:

• R - selected species: These species have a high reproductive rate. They produce a large number of offspring in a short time. Their life - history strategy is to maximize population growth when resources are abundant. For example, many insects are R - selected. They lay a large number of eggs. In a favorable environment (e.g., plenty of food and space), the population can grow rapidly.
• K - selected species: They have a low reproductive rate. They invest more in each offspring (e.g., longer gestation periods, more parental care). Their population growth is relatively slow as they tend to reach the carrying capacity ($K$) of the environment more gradually. For example, elephants are K - selected.
• L - selected and H - selected species are not standard terms in the context of population growth strategies related to reproductive rates and population growth potential.

Answer:

B. R - selected species