What is a key feature of K-selected species in ecological terms?

K-selected species are characterized by a low reproduction rate coupled with a high investment in their offspring. This strategy is often observed in stable environments where resources are limited, leading to competition among individuals. K-selected species tend to produce fewer young, but they invest considerable parental care and resources into ensuring the survival and well-being of those offspring. This investment increases the chances of those young reaching maturity and reproducing themselves.

The focus on quality over quantity in offspring development is essential for these species, as environmental pressures typically favor individuals that are well-adapted rather than merely numerous. This reproductive strategy is contrasted with r-selected species, which prioritize rapid reproduction and have many offspring with little parental investment. In stable ecosystems, such as forests or mature grasslands, K-selected species thrive, as they are better suited to surviving in competitive circumstances where nurturing and survival of fewer offspring is advantageous.