UNIT 2
Reproductive Strategies
LESSON 8
Reproductive Strategies Unit Test
1) What is a reproductive strategy?
A reproductive strategy refers to the set of behaviors and characteristics that an organism employs to ensure successful reproduction and the survival of its offspring.
2) How does sexual reproduction differ from asexual reproduction?
Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of gametes from two parents to create offspring, resulting in genetic diversity. Asexual reproduction, on the other hand, involves the creation of offspring without the need for gametes or the involvement of another parent, resulting in genetically identical offspring.
3) What are some advantages of sexual reproduction?
Some advantages of sexual reproduction include increased genetic diversity, which can lead to greater adaptability and survival in changing environments. Sexual reproduction also allows for the repair of damaged DNA and the removal of harmful mutations from the gene pool.
4) What are some advantages of asexual reproduction?
Some advantages of asexual reproduction include the ability to reproduce rapidly, without the need for a mate. This can be advantageous in stable environments where there is little need for genetic variation.
5) What is the difference between internal and external fertilization?
Internal fertilization occurs when fertilization of the egg by sperm occurs inside the reproductive tract of the female. External fertilization occurs when the sperm and eggs are released into the external environment and come into contact for fertilization.
6) What are some examples of organisms that use internal fertilization?
Examples of organisms that use internal fertilization include mammals, reptiles, birds, and some insects.
7) What are some examples of organisms that use external fertilization?
Examples of organisms that use external fertilization include fish, amphibians, some reptiles, and many invertebrates such as jellyfish and sea urchins.
8) What are some factors that influence the type of reproductive strategy an organism uses?
Some factors that influence the type of reproductive strategy an organism uses include the organism's habitat, the availability of mates, the presence or absence of predators or competitors, and the stability of the environment.
9) How does parental care differ between species with internal and external fertilization?
Species with internal fertilization tend to have higher levels of parental care, as the offspring are typically more vulnerable and require more extensive care. In contrast, species with external fertilization often have little or no parental care, as the offspring are usually more self-sufficient and have a lower survival rate.
10) How do life history traits, such as the number of offspring produced and the age of reproductive maturity, relate to reproductive strategies?
Life history traits are closely linked to reproductive strategies. Organisms with a higher reproductive output and earlier reproductive maturity tend to have a shorter lifespan and invest less in each individual offspring. In contrast, organisms with a lower reproductive output and later reproductive maturity tend to have a longer lifespan and invest more in each individual offspring. These differences in life history traits are influenced by factors such as environmental conditions and the level of competition or predation.