Class 12 · Organisms and Populations

Life History Traits and Reproductive Strategies — NEET Biology

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Populations evolve to maximise their reproductive fitness, also called Darwinian fitness (high r value), in the habitat in which they live. Under a particular set of selection pressures, organisms evolve towards the most efficient reproductive strategy. Some organisms breed only once in their lifetime (Pacific salmon fish, bamboo) while others breed many times during their lifetime (most birds and mammals). Some produce a large number of small-sized offspring (Oysters, pelagic fishes) while others produce a small number of large-sized offspring (birds, mammals). So, which is desirable for maximising fitness? Ecologists suggest that life history traits of organisms have evolved in relation to the constraints imposed by the abiotic and biotic components of the habitat in which they live. Evolution of life history traits in different species is currently an important area of research being conducted by ecologists.

NCERT Biology · Class 12 · Chapter 11 · Paragraph 37
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Which statements describe life history strategies? 1. Pacific salmon breeds many times in life. 2. Bamboo breeds only once in life. 3. Oysters produce many small-sized offspring. 4. Birds and mammals usually produce fewer, larger offspring. 5. Reproductive traits evolve in response to abiotic and biotic constraints.

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