What factor significantly contributes to the vulnerability of the Eastern Lowland Gorilla population regarding recovery rates?
Answer
The slow reproductive cycle, featuring long interbirth intervals
The recovery potential for the Eastern Lowland Gorilla population is severely hampered by its naturally slow reproductive cycle. Females reach maturity relatively late, and critically, the interval between births is long, typically spaced every three to four years. This extended period is necessary because infants require several years of total dependency on their mothers to learn essential survival skills. Because of this slow generational turnover, any sudden spike in adult mortality, caused by poaching or conflict, has a prolonged and deep impact on the species' ability to rebound numerically.
Related Questions
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