Question:

Which of the following is "r-strategist"?

Show Hint

Pests that cause sudden, explosive outbreaks (like aphids, whiteflies, and planthoppers) are almost always r-strategists characterized by high fecundity and rapid development.
  • Aphids
  • Bees
  • Codling moth
  • Tiger moth
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation


Step 1: Understanding the Concept:

According to selection theory, species are classified into r-strategists (rapid reproduction, highly unstable populations) and K-strategists (stable population, high maternal investment, parental care).

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Aphids are classic r-strategists.
They possess extremely high reproductive rates, short generation times, and reproduce parthenogenetically (without fertilization) during spring and summer.
This allows their populations to increase exponentially to exploit temporary resources before crash phases.
Bees exhibit high parental care and social structures, leaning towards K-selection.

Step 3: Final Answer:

The r-strategist among the options is Aphids, which corresponds to option (A).
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