[Campbell Biology P.1073] According to Figure 46.8 and its conclusion, what is the most accur... | Practice Question

According to Figure 46.8 and its conclusion, what is the most accurate statement regarding why female fruit flies may produce offspring predominantly from a second mating?

  • A: The ejaculate from the second male physically displaces the sperm from the first male.
  • B: Females actively expel or "dump" previously stored sperm, especially if the subsequent mating is with a healthy male.
  • C: Sperm from the first male quickly degrades and becomes inviable, regardless of subsequent matings.
  • D: Males from the second mating use claspers to remove sperm from the first mating.

Explanation

Figure 46.8's conclusion states: 'Because remating reduces sperm storage when no sperm or fluids are transferred, the hypothesis that ejaculate from a second mating displaces stored sperm is incorrect. Instead, it appears females may get rid of stored sperm in response to remating, perhaps allowing for replacing stored sperm, possibly of diminished fitness, with fresh sperm.' This directly supports option B.