Problem 39 - Objective Biology for NEET

Question

In sponge, the sperm and ova are produced by the same individual. Such types of organisms are called (a) Asexual (b) Unisexual (c) Hermaphrodite (d) Dioecious

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The correct answer is (c) Hermaphrodite.

Step 1: Understand the Question

The goal of this question is to identify the term that defines organisms, like sponges, which produce both sperm and ova in the same individual. In this exercise, there are four options provided: (a) Asexual, (b) Unisexual, (c) Hermaphrodite, and (d) Dioecious.

Step 2: Evaluate Each Option

\(a) Asexual\) refers to organisms that reproduce without involving the fusion of gametes. \(b) Unisexual\) refers to organisms whose male and female reproductive organs are in different individuals. \(c) Hermaphrodites\) refer to organisms that possess both male and female reproductive organs in the same individual. \(d) Dioecious\) refers to species in which individuals are either male or female, not both.

Step 3: Select the Correct Answer

Based on the description given, sponges produce both sperm and ova in the same individual, making them a \(c) Hermaphrodite\).

Key Concepts

Reproductive Biology

Reproductive biology is a fascinating area of study that examines the processes and systems through which organisms produce offspring. In many species, this involves sexual reproduction, where genetic material from two parents combine to give rise to a new individual—a process that enhances genetic diversity.

Within sexual reproduction, there are different strategies. For example, hermaphroditism, the condition where an individual organism has both male and female reproductive organs, allows for a flexible approach to reproduction. Hermaphroditic organisms can sometimes self-fertilize, but often they will exchange gametes with another organism for genetic diversity.

Other reproductive strategies include unisexual reproduction (where individuals have only one set of reproductive organs), asexual reproduction (which does not involve the fusion of gametes and leads to genetically identical offspring), and species that are dioecious, with distinct male and female individuals.

Sponge Reproduction

Sponges are simple aquatic creatures with a diverse array of reproductive strategies. While they can reproduce asexually, their sexual reproduction is particularly noteworthy. Sponges are considered to be hermaphrodites, which means they produce both sperm and eggs in the same individual, though typically not at the same time to prevent self-fertilization.

In most sponge species, sperm is released into the water column and taken in by other sponges, where it may fertilize the eggs. This method of sperm dispersal is known as 'broadcast spawning' and helps increase the likelihood of successful fertilization by spreading the sperm over a wide area.

This form of sexual reproduction is vital for genetic diversity in sponges and plays an essential role in their adaptation and survival in various aquatic environments.

Sexual Reproduction in Animals

Sexual reproduction is the biological process by which most animals produce offspring. This reproductive strategy involves the combination of genetic material from two individuals—typically one male and one female—resulting in genetically unique offspring. There are several variations in this process, reflecting the incredible diversity of the animal kingdom.

In animals, we observe hermaphroditism as seen in sponges, unisexual reproduction as noted within species with separate sexes, and sometimes, more complex systems such as sequential hermaphroditism, where an individual may change sex during its lifetime.

Each reproductive strategy has evolved to fit specific environmental contexts and life history strategies. Sexual reproduction across the animal kingdom is often synchronized with environmental cues such as temperature, food availability, and the presence of other individuals, which maximizes the chances of reproductive success.