Which of the following is a characteristic of K strategists?

K strategists are species that typically thrive in stable environments where competition is more intense. One of their main characteristics is the significant investment in care for their offspring. This investment can manifest in various forms, including prolonged parental care, protection from predation, and ensuring that the young have the resources needed to survive and grow. This strategy enhances the survival rate of fewer offspring, aligning with the needs of a population facing resource limitations.

This emphasis on caregiving contrasts sharply with the characteristics of r strategists, who produce many offspring but provide little to no care. K strategists tend to focus more on quality rather than quantity, which is evident in their reproductive strategies and the gradual development of their young.

In terms of distinctions, K strategists are typically larger in size and mature more slowly, which aligns with their approach of fostering a smaller number of well-cared-for young rather than a rapid increase in population numbers seen in species that employ an r-strategy. This investment leads to a higher chance of each individual offspring surviving to maturity.