In some tribes, the population does not grow appreciably because of

Options

A. Low fecundity
B. The high rate of infant mortality
C. Illiteracy
D. Limited food supply

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Population Growth Factors**:
- Population growth is influenced by various factors including birth rates, death rates, fecundity (the ability to reproduce), and mortality rates, especially infant mortality.

2. **Identifying Key Factors**:
- In the context of the question, we need to consider factors that could lead to a stagnant population in certain tribes. The factors mentioned include low fecundity, high infant mortality, illiteracy, and limited food supply.

3. **Analyzing Each Factor**:
- **Low Fecundity**: This refers to a low reproductive rate. While this can affect population growth, it is not the only factor.
- **High Infant Mortality**: This is the rate at which infants die before reaching a certain age. A high rate of infant mortality directly impacts the population size because it means that fewer infants survive to adulthood.
- **Illiteracy**: This can affect population growth indirectly through education and awareness about family planning, but it does not directly cause a decrease in population size.
- **Limited Food Supply**: While this can lead to malnutrition and affect health, it is more of a contributing factor rather than a direct cause of low population growth.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Among the factors listed, the high rate of infant mortality is the most significant reason for the population not growing appreciably. When many infants do not survive, the overall population size will not increase.

5. **Final Answer**:
- The correct option is the high rate of infant mortality.