Hermaphrodite in Animals

Hermaphrodite is an organism that has both male and female reproductive organs. In the animal kingdom, there are several hermaphrodite species. One of them is an earthworm.

Earthworm as Hermaphrodite

Earthworms are hermaphrodites, which means that they have both male and female reproductive organs. This allows them to mate with another earthworm and fertilize each other's eggs. During mating, two earthworms line up side by side with their heads pointing in opposite directions. They then exchange sperm packets, which will be used to fertilize their eggs.

Advantages of Hermaphroditism in Earthworms

Hermaphroditism has several advantages for earthworms. It allows them to reproduce without the need for a mate, which is particularly useful in areas where earthworm populations are low. It also increases the chances of successful fertilization, as earthworms can mate with any other earthworm they come into contact with.

Conclusion

In conclusion, earthworms are hermaphrodites, which means that they have both male and female reproductive organs. This allows them to mate with any other earthworm they come into contact with, increasing the chances of successful fertilization. Hermaphroditism has several advantages for earthworms, including the ability to reproduce without the need for a mate.

Hermaphrodites in Animals

Hermaphrodites are animals that possess both male and female reproductive organs. This allows them to mate with any individual of their species, regardless of sex. Here, the correct answer is option 'B', Earthworm. Let's see why:

Earthworms as Hermaphrodites

- Earthworms are hermaphrodites, meaning they have both male and female reproductive organs.
- Each earthworm has both ovaries and testes, making them capable of producing both eggs and sperm.
- During mating, two earthworms align themselves so that their clitellums (a thickened glandular and muscular section of the body) are in contact with each other.
- They exchange sperm and then retreat to their burrows to lay eggs in cocoons fertilized by the sperm of their partner.
- Earthworms are important for soil health and nutrient cycling, and their hermaphroditism allows them to efficiently reproduce and maintain their populations.