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Multiple Choice
A survivorship curve is defined as which of the following?
A
A diagram that illustrates the flow of energy through a food web
B
A chart that displays the genetic variation within a population
C
A graph that shows the number or proportion of individuals surviving at each age for a given species or group
D
A curve that represents the rate of photosynthesis in plants under different light conditions
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of a survivorship curve: A survivorship curve is a graph that represents the number or proportion of individuals in a population that survive to various ages. It is used to study population dynamics and life history strategies of species.
Identify the three main types of survivorship curves: Type I (high survival in early and middle life, followed by a steep decline in later life), Type II (constant mortality rate throughout life), and Type III (high mortality in early life, with survivors living longer).
Analyze the options provided in the question: Eliminate choices that do not align with the definition of a survivorship curve. For example, a diagram illustrating energy flow in a food web or a chart showing genetic variation are unrelated to survivorship curves.
Focus on the correct definition: The correct answer is 'A graph that shows the number or proportion of individuals surviving at each age for a given species or group,' as it directly aligns with the concept of a survivorship curve.
Review the purpose of survivorship curves: They help ecologists understand species' life history strategies, population dynamics, and the impact of environmental factors on survival rates.