Which pattern describes a Type I survivorship curve?

• A. High mortality rate among the young, with few individuals reaching old age
• B. Rapid population growth followed by a sudden decline
• C. High survival rate of the young, with most individuals dying in old age
• D. Constant death rate throughout the lifespan

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of survivorship curves: Survivorship curves are graphical representations that show the number or proportion of individuals surviving at each age for a given species or group.
2. Identify the characteristics of a Type I survivorship curve: Type I curves are characterized by high survival rates during early and middle life, followed by a rapid decline in survival in later years.
3. Recognize the typical organisms that exhibit Type I survivorship curves: These curves are often seen in species that produce few offspring but provide significant parental care, such as humans and large mammals.
4. Compare the given options to the characteristics of a Type I curve: The correct pattern for a Type I curve is 'High survival rate of the young, with most individuals dying in old age.'
5. Eliminate the incorrect options: The other options describe different types of survivorship curves, such as Type II (constant death rate) or Type III (high mortality among the young).