Life History Theory: Key Concepts and Strategies - Lecture 7

Explore the fundamental concepts of life history theory in this 35-minute lecture. Delve into key definitions and analytical frameworks used to explain inter- and intra-specific variations in organisms' life cycles. Examine the stages of life history and how they vary with latitude. Investigate Lack's optimal clutch hypothesis and factors influencing offspring numbers. Analyze environmental conditions, strategies, and survivorship curves. Discuss important trade-offs in life history, including age of first reproduction, parental experience, fecundity, survival, and adult fitness. Consider the relationships between growth, fecundity, and breeding frequency. Conclude by examining the concept of parental investment and its implications for life history strategies.