Which of these organisms has a Type I survivorship curve similar to that of humans?

• A. Insects
• B. Fish
• C. Frogs
• D. Elephants

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of a Type I survivorship curve: A Type I survivorship curve is characterized by high survival rates during early and middle life, followed by a rapid decline in survival in later years. This pattern is typical of species that invest significant resources in the care of their offspring.
2. Identify the characteristics of organisms with a Type I survivorship curve: These organisms typically have fewer offspring, longer lifespans, and provide substantial parental care, ensuring that most offspring survive to adulthood.
3. Compare the given organisms to the characteristics of a Type I survivorship curve: Insects, fish, and frogs generally have many offspring with little parental care, leading to high mortality rates early in life, which is more characteristic of Type III survivorship curves.
4. Consider the life history of elephants: Elephants have long lifespans, produce few offspring, and provide extensive parental care, which aligns with the characteristics of a Type I survivorship curve.
5. Conclude that elephants have a Type I survivorship curve similar to humans, based on their life history traits and survival patterns.