Which type of species is characterized by small size and short life cycles?

The type of species characterized by small size and short life cycles is known as opportunistic species. These species typically thrive in unstable or unpredictable environments where resources can fluctuate. Their reproductive strategies often involve producing a large number of offspring quickly, which allows them to exploit transient opportunities in their environment, such as after disturbances like fires or floods.

Opportunistic species prioritize speed over longevity, tending to reach maturity rapidly and reproducing prolifically in a relatively short time frame. This adaptability enables them to colonize new habitats quickly and take advantage of available resources before other species may establish themselves.

In contrast, equilibrium species tend to have longer life spans and invest in fewer offspring, focusing on stable environments. Constant loss species often have stable populations with more consistent survival rates, not emphasizing the short life cycles associated with opportunistic species. Keystone species play critical roles in maintaining the structure of an ecological community, but do not necessarily have small size or short life cycles.