Hermaphroditism
from class:
General Biology I
Definition
Hermaphroditism is a reproductive strategy where an organism possesses both male and female reproductive organs. This allows the organism to produce both eggs and sperm, often enabling self-fertilization or mating with any individual of its species.
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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Hermaphroditic organisms can be found in various animal groups including some fish, snails, and worms.
- There are two main types: simultaneous hermaphroditism, where both reproductive organs are present at the same time, and sequential hermaphroditism, where the organism changes sex at some point in its life.
- Simultaneous hermaphrodites can often self-fertilize but may also mate with others to increase genetic diversity.
- Sequential hermaphrodites may change from male to female (protandry) or from female to male (protogyny).
- Hermaphroditism can be advantageous in environments where finding a mate is challenging.
Review Questions
- What are the two main types of hermaphroditism?
- How does simultaneous hermaphroditism differ from sequential hermaphroditism?
- What advantage does hermaphroditism provide in certain environments?
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