Question

Which of the following characterizesparthenogenesis?

(A) An individual may change its sex during itslifetime.

(B) Specialized groups of cells grow into newindividuals.

(C) An organism is first a male and then a female.

(D) An egg develops without being fertilized.

Short answer

(A)The option “An individual may change its sex during its lifetime” isincorrect.

(B)The option “Specialized groups of cells grow into new individuals” isincorrect.

(C)The option “An organism is first a male and then a female” isincorrect.

(D)The option “An egg develops without being fertilized” is correct.

Step-by-step solution

Parthenogenesis

Parthenogenesis is a process that usually occurs in plants. Another meaning of parthenogenesis is virgin reproduction. It is most prevalent in lower plants and invertebrates (especially aphids, ants, wasps, and bees), but is only seen in higher vertebrates on rare occasions.

Explanation of option ‘(A)’

A disorder known as sequential hermaphroditism develops when a person's sex changes over time, they can be both male and female. A sequential hermaphrodite can produce eggs and sperm at two different stages in their life.

Thus, this option does not characterize parthenogenesis.

Therefore, the given option is incorrect.

Explanation of option ‘(B)’

If the specialized group of cells grows into a new individual, it is called reproduction. In reproduction, the fusion of two specialized cells called gametes produces and develops a new individual.

Thus, the formation of a new individual does not characterize parthenogenesis.

Therefore, the given option is incorrect.

Explanation of option ‘(C)’

If an organism is first male then female, then it is also a characteristic of sequential hermaphroditism. An individual who can change their sex during any point in their life is called a hermaphrodite.

Thus, changing sex is not the characteristic of parthenogenesis.

Therefore, the given option is incorrect.

Explanation of option ‘(D)’

When an egg develops without being fertilized, then the process is called parthenogenesis. Asexual reproduction, in which the organism develops without the fusion of gametes without fertilization, is known as parthenogenesis.

Thus, the development of an egg without fertilization is the characteristic of parthenogenesis.

Therefore, the given option is correct.