Question

Neoteny is found in
A. Tadpole
B. Salamander
C. Hyla
D. Axolotl

Answer 1

Hint: Neoteny is the process of the slow development of the somatic cells except for the germ cells or the reproductive parts. The physical maturation depends on the somatic cells, so if their maturation is delayed the entire physical growth is delayed. But the reproductive cells or germ cells develop at a constant phase just like the normal growth.

Complete answer:
Neoteny means full sexual development with slow physical development. It is generally seen at the larval stage where the organism grows sexually but the development of somatic cells comes to a stop.
Salamander, Hyla, and tadpole both are amphibians and undergo a metamorphosis which is referred to as a dramatic change in the young body of organisms to adults. Metamorphosis is a part of the life cycle of many animals.
Therefore, option (a), (b) and (c) are incorrect.
The axolotl is the immature form of Mexican Salamander that is neotenic, which has a close resemblance with tiger salamander. They are critically endangered species.

Hence, the correct answer is option (D).

Additional information:
Neoteny is generally of three types:-
-Obligate Neoteny- It is also known as permanent neoteny in which the organism does not undergo metamorphosis and stays in the larval form for the entire life. Example- Siren.
-Inducible Neoteny- This type of neoteny is induced, which means that the organism will be in the larval stage for a few years and then convert to their adult form. Example- Ambystoma.
-Facultative Neoteny- This occurs in individuals due to changes in environmental conditions.

Note: Axolotl lives long and has a survival age of years. They feed on mollusks, worms, insects, and other larvae. They are endangered though but reside only in the lakes of Mexico City. They are different from Salamanders that are permanent residents of water. Axolotl becomes sexually mature in about months. The male releases spermatophore in water and the female takes them up, laying eggs at a time.