Which of the following is a characteristic of a species with an opportunistic life history pattern?

• A. Produces many offspring with little parental care
• B. Exhibits strong competition for resources
• C. Has a long lifespan and delayed reproduction
• D. Maintains stable population sizes near carrying capacity

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of an opportunistic life history pattern: This refers to species that thrive in unpredictable or unstable environments. They tend to reproduce quickly and in large numbers to maximize their chances of survival in such conditions.
2. Review the characteristics of opportunistic species: These species typically produce many offspring, invest minimal parental care, and have short lifespans. This strategy allows them to exploit temporary or fluctuating resources effectively.
3. Analyze the options provided: Look for traits that align with the opportunistic life history pattern, such as high reproductive output and low parental investment.
4. Eliminate options that do not match: For example, traits like strong competition for resources, long lifespans, delayed reproduction, or stable population sizes near carrying capacity are more characteristic of species with an equilibrium (K-selected) life history pattern.
5. Select the correct answer: Identify the option that describes producing many offspring with little parental care, as this is a hallmark of an opportunistic life history pattern.