[Campbell Biology P.1242] According to the text, what is the primary focus of a typical life ... | Practice Question

According to the text, what is the primary focus of a typical life table in population ecology when studying sexually reproducing species?

  • A: Males only, as they contribute genetic diversity.
  • B: Both sexes equally, to understand overall population dynamics.
  • C: Females only, as they are the ones producing new offspring.
  • D: All individuals regardless of age, to track overall mortality.

Explanation

The text states: 'Demographers who study sexually reproducing species often ignore the males and concentrate on the females in a population because only females produce offspring.' Therefore, the primary focus is on females and their reproductive contributions.