Question

What is r selection?

Answer 1

r selection is a method of rearing offspring with an emphasis on high growth rate and population increase

(explanation shows comparison to K selection)

Explanation:

r and K selection refer to the selection of the combination of traits in an organism relating to how they rear their offspring.

r selection:
emphasis on high growth rate and population increase
many offspring
short gestation
can reproduce quickly
less parental care
less time until sexual maturity

(e.g. bacteria, insects, rodents)

K selection:
emphasis on staying in carrying capacity- the maximum population size of a species that an environment can sustain indefinitely
few offspring
long gestation
long parental care
long period until sexual maturity

(e.g. elephants, humans, whales)