Evolution
Semelparous Reproduction
A reproductive strategy with a single reproductive episode followed by death. All resources are invested in one massive breeding effort.
Biological Context
Pacific salmon spawn once and die. Century plants bloom once after decades of growth. The strategy makes sense when survival between breeding attempts is unlikely or when one massive effort outperforms multiple small ones.
Business Application
Business semelparity: companies or products designed for one big exit. Venture-backed startups often pursue this strategy—burn resources for growth, succeed spectacularly or die.