Final answer:
The true statement regarding a specialized foraging subsistence pattern is that it can be a very risky way of life in a changing environment. This statement reflects the susceptibility of such subsistence patterns to environmental changes which can lead to the scarcity of key resources.
Step-by-step explanation:
Specialized Foraging Subsistence Pattern
A specialized foraging subsistence pattern can be understood as a subsistence strategy that a group of people use to obtain their food, primarily relying on either hunting or gathering. It is a strategy that is associated with mobility and the ability to adapt to seasonal changes by moving across broad territories. In the context of this question, which pertains to the peculiarities of a specialized foraging subsistence pattern, it is important to consider the variability across different environments and cultural practices.
Given the information, the true statement about a specialized foraging subsistence pattern is: It can be a very risky way of life in a changing environment. Specialized foraging strategies can involve depending heavily on a narrow range of food resources. If these resources become scarce due to environmental changes or other factors, the subsistence pattern becomes risky as it leaves little room for adaptability. This risk is heightened in the context of global climate change, which can drastically and rapidly alter the availability of key resources.
While it has been a common subsistence strategy for gatherer-hunters, especially in areas where resources are seasonally plentiful, it is crucial to note that many societies practice not just one but a combination of various strategies, thus the total amount of food acquired and the time invested to secure it can vary a great deal. The assertion that the total amount of food acquired is often less and the time required to secure it is greater, compared to a diversified subsistence pattern, does not capture the complexity and adaptability of these foraging practices.