Which life history strategy is characterized by high offspring mortality?

The life history strategy characterized by high offspring mortality is associated with R-selected species. R-selected species prioritize rapid reproduction and producing a large number of offspring. This strategy is advantageous in unstable or unpredictable environments where the chance of offspring survival is low. As a result, these species invest less energy in each individual offspring and more in producing many, leading to high mortality rates among them.

R-selected species often exhibit traits such as early maturation, short lifespans, and minimal parental care, which further contribute to the high turnover of generations and the ability to exploit temporary favorable conditions. The focus on quantity over quality means that while many offspring are produced, a smaller proportion are likely to survive to adulthood. This strategy contrasts with K-selected species, which tend to have lower mortality rates among offspring due to greater investment in parental care and fewer offspring produced.