EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -The production of numerous small offspring followed by exponential population growth is the defining characteristic of r-selected species. They require short gestation periods, mature quickly (and thus require little or no parental care), and possess short life spans.

Detailed explanation-2: -r-selected species are defined as those present in fluctuating environments that have large numbers of offspring and do not provide long-term care after birth.

Detailed explanation-3: -Examples of r-strategist species are dogs, cats, insects, and fish.

Detailed explanation-4: -Typical examples of r-species are mice, rabbits, weeds and bacteria, which have a lot of offspring, but a short life expectancy. Examples of organisms undergoing K-selection are tortoises, elephants, people, and sequoia trees: their offspring are few but long-lived.

Detailed explanation-5: -Characteristic of R-selection strategy is it reaches reproductive capability after several years. Therefore, Option B is the correct answer. The production of frequent small offspring followed by exponential population growth is the defining characteristic of r-selected species.