Which of the following describes the distribution of survivorship or mortality for a population that has a Type II survivorship curve?

• A. Little death occurs until late in life.
• B. Most of the mortality occurs among younger individuals.
• C. Survivorship is greatest in younger individuals.
• D. Survivorship is greatest in individuals that are intermediate in age.
• E. The chance of death is roughly constant over all ages.

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of a Type II survivorship curve: In ecology, survivorship curves are graphical representations of the number of individuals surviving at each age for a given species or group. Type II curves are characterized by a constant mortality rate throughout the life of the organism.
2. Recognize the characteristics of a Type II survivorship curve: Unlike Type I curves, where mortality is low until late in life, or Type III curves, where mortality is high among younger individuals, Type II curves show a steady rate of survival and mortality across all ages.
3. Analyze the options given in the problem: Each option describes a different pattern of survivorship or mortality. Compare these descriptions to the characteristics of a Type II curve.
4. Identify the correct description: The correct description for a Type II survivorship curve is that the chance of death is roughly constant over all ages, meaning there is no particular age where mortality is significantly higher or lower.
5. Conclude the analysis: Based on the understanding of Type II survivorship curves, the correct answer is the option stating that the chance of death is roughly constant over all ages, as this matches the definition and characteristics of a Type II curve.