How do K-selected species generally behave in terms of reproduction?

K-selected species are characterized by their reproductive strategy that emphasizes the quality of offspring over quantity. These species typically invest significant time and resources into raising a smaller number of offspring, which increases the chance that these young will survive to adulthood. This strategy is often found in stable environments where competition for resources is high, so ensuring that offspring have a better chance to thrive is advantageous.

The emphasis on the care and nurturing of each individual offspring means that K-selected species tend to exhibit behaviors such as extended parental care and investment in the development of their young. This can manifest in longer gestation periods, as parents ensure that the offspring are well-developed before birth; however, the primary trait that defines K-selected species is the strategy of prioritizing the quality of fewer offspring rather than producing numerous offspring with less investment.