Question

Given the definitions of r-strategists and k-strategists, what other examples of each can you think of?

A sample answer will include the following:

R-strategists:

Flowers in the desert

Mosquitos

Bacteria

K-strategists:

Birds

Dolphins

Monkeys

Elephants

Answer 1

R-Strategists are those organisms that emphasize on producing more number of offsprings however the chances of the survival of the offspring is relatively lower. The important traits of organisms that fall under this category are high fertility, smaller body size, shorter generation time, and early maturity onset.

K-Strategists are the organisms on the other hand that are completely opposite to this. The features such as long life expectancy, larger body size, and production of lesser offsprings are some of the classical trademarks of such organisms. The key difference that segregates both types is the rate of survival of the offspring. In the case of K-strategists, the survival rate of offsprings is very high due to extensive parental care whereas in case of R-strategists this rate is poor.

The examples of both are listed below:

R-Strategists: Bacteria, Most insects like mosquito, dandelion, salmon, corals, etc

K-Strategists: Parrots, Humans, Whales, Elephants, Eagles, Monkeys, Chimpanzees, Turtles, etc.