Studies of Populations

Important Terms Fitness: a measure of an individual’s ability to ensure the inclusion of their genes/genotype in the next generation Reproductive success zero offspring = zero fitness Fecundity: the number of offspring produced by a female during her lifetime

Species and their Life Histories K-Selected Species: populations that tend to exist close to their carrying capacity (K) High density populations Individuals must maximize efficiency at obtaining resources to survive and reproduce Long maturation time Long lifespans Low mortality rates Fewer and larger sized offspring Extensive parental care Mammals

Species and their Life Histories r-selected species: populations that tend to grow rapidly because of abundant resources low density populations Short maturation time Short lifespans High mortality rates Many small sized offspring Zero parental care Insects