Polyps and medusae of coelenterates (fixed and free-floating stages) a...
Two or more forms of same species is called polymorphism. Coelenterates are of two kinds alternating with each other. Polys forms remain fixed with attached with substratum and medusa forms are free-floating stages.
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Polyps and medusae of coelenterates (fixed and free-floating stages) a...
Polyps and medusae of coelenterates (fixed and free-floating stages) are examples of polymorphism related to genetic diversity.
Explanation:
Polymorphism refers to the occurrence of different forms or types within a single species. In the case of coelenterates, such as jellyfish and coral, the polyp and medusa stages represent different forms of individuals within the same species.
Polyp Stage:
- The polyp stage is a fixed, sessile form that attaches to surfaces such as rocks or coral reefs.
- It has a cylindrical body with tentacles surrounding a central mouth.
- Polyps reproduce asexually by budding, where new polyps are formed from the parent polyp.
- The polyp stage is responsible for the growth and formation of colonies.
Medusa Stage:
- The medusa stage is a free-floating, bell-shaped form that can swim and move through the water.
- It has a jelly-like body with tentacles hanging down from the bell-shaped structure.
- Medusae reproduce sexually, with males and females releasing eggs and sperm into the water for fertilization.
- The fertilized eggs develop into larvae, which eventually settle and transform into polyps.
Genetic Diversity:
- Polyps and medusae represent different stages in the life cycle of coelenterates and exhibit distinct morphological and physiological characteristics.
- This polymorphism is a result of genetic diversity within the species.
- Genetic diversity refers to the variety of genetic information present within a population or species.
- The different forms of polyps and medusae arise from variations in the expression of genes.
- These genetic variations may be the result of mutations, genetic recombination, or other mechanisms.
Significance of Genetic Diversity:
- Genetic diversity is important for the survival and adaptation of a species.
- It allows for variation in traits, which can provide advantages in different environments or in response to changing conditions.
- In the case of coelenterates, the polyp stage allows for colony formation and attachment to surfaces, while the medusa stage facilitates movement and dispersal.
- The genetic diversity represented by polymorphism in coelenterates allows the species to occupy different ecological niches and increases their chances of survival and reproduction.
Conclusion:
Polyps and medusae of coelenterates represent polymorphism related to genetic diversity. The different forms of these stages arise from variations in gene expression, providing the species with adaptive advantages and increasing their chances of survival and reproduction.