What is indicated by a species that is K-selected?

A species that is classified as K-selected is characterized by lower reproductive rates accompanied by a higher level of parental investment. This reproductive strategy typically occurs in stable environments where competition for limited resources is significant. K-selected species tend to produce fewer offspring but invest considerable time and resources in raising them to ensure they survive to adulthood.

The emphasis on parental care increases the likelihood of the offspring's success in survival and reproduction, which is vital in environments where carrying capacity is a fundamental factor. This approach contrasts with r-selected species, which focus on high reproductive rates and producing many offspring, often sacrificing parental care to increase the likelihood of at least some surviving. Therefore, the essence of K-selection embodies a strategy that balances reproductive output with the quality and survival of the offspring in an environment where populations are often close to their carrying capacity.