What does the term K-species means?

K-species refers to a species that is well-adapted to stable, low-disturbance environments. K-species are typically characterized by slow population growth rates, large body sizes, and long life spans. They are also often social animals that live in dense populations.

The term K-species is derived from the carrying capacity of an environment, which is the maximum population size that can be sustained in that environment. K-species are often found in environments that are close to their carrying capacity, where competition for resources is intense. In contrast, r-species are species that are well-adapted to unstable, high-disturbance environments. R-species are typically characterized by fast population growth rates, small body sizes, and short life spans. They are also often opportunistic feeders that live in dispersed populations.

The dichotomy between K-species and r-species is a useful way to understand the diversity of life on Earth. K-species and r-species represent two different evolutionary strategies that have evolved in response to different environmental conditions.