Chapter 30, Problem 15STP

Summary Introduction

To determine:

The r-strategist population is suitable for changing environment.

Introduction:

There are two types reproductive strategies adapted by the animals, r-strategy, in which many cheap offspring are produced and k-strategy, in which small number of offspring produced by a huge investment.

Explanation of Solution

The k-strategist produces a very few offspring, so, if the conditions are not suitable, the young one and the parent will die before they can produce another offspring. So, in the changing environment the adaptation becomes tough for them.

In the case of r-strategist, the parent produces many offspring and frequently. So, even if some offspring die a few of them may survive. Additionally, as they produce more offspring again quickly, there are chances that some of them receive recombinant genetic design in such a way that the offspring can survive. So, there are more chances of survival for r-strategists.