R-selected species in AP Environmental Science

Definition

r-selected species are organisms that have a high reproductive rate and produce many offspring, but provide little parental care. They typically have short lifespans and reach sexual maturity quickly.

Related terms

K-selected species:

These are organisms that have a low reproductive rate and produce few offspring, but provide extensive parental care. They typically have longer lifespans and reach sexual maturity later.

Carrying capacity:

This refers to the maximum number of individuals that an environment can sustainably support.

Population growth rate: It is the rate at which a population increases or decreases over time, taking into account births, deaths, immigration, and emigration.