Which of the following is a hermaphrodite?a)Cockroachb)Earthwormc)Aphi...
- In biology, a hermaphrodite is an organism that has complete or partial reproductive organs and produces gametes normally associated with both male and female sexes.
- Many taxonomic groups of animals (mostly invertebrates) do not have separate sexes. In these groups, hermaphroditism is a normal condition, enabling a form of sexual reproduction in which either partner can act as the "female" or "male." For example, the great majority of tunicates, pulmonate snails, opisthobranch snails, earthworms and slugs are hermaphrodites.
- Hermaphroditism is also found in some fish species and to a lesser degree in other vertebrates. Most plants are also hermaphrodites.
Which of the following is a hermaphrodite?a)Cockroachb)Earthwormc)Aphi...
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.