Question

Which of the following are characteristic of individuals who arrive first at primary sites?

a) They are K-strategists
b) They are larger animals and plants that migrate into primary sites
c) They are often consumers/predators
d) They are often adapted resistant to extreme conditions

Answer 1

Individuals that arrive first at primary sites are typically r-selected pioneer species, adapted to resist extreme conditions, and able to rapidly colonize the area. They are not K-strategists, as they have plenty of small offspring and low parental investment. These are generally small organisms, not large animals, plants, or consumers/predators.

Step-by-step explanation:

The characteristics of individuals who arrive first at primary sites, such as those encountered in primary succession, tend to be pioneer species. These species are usually r-selected, meaning they are adapted to unstable and unpredictable environments. Pioneer species exhibit traits such as:

• Producing large numbers of small offspring
• Having offspring that are relatively self-sufficient at birth
• Being able to colonize and thrive in extreme conditions

These r-selected species are generally not K-strategists, which are adapted to stable, predictable environments and have larger but fewer offspring with a long gestation period and high parental investment. Thus, individuals that typically arrive first at primary sites are often adapted to resist extreme conditions and are mainly small, opportunistic organisms rather than larger animals, plants, or consumers/predators.