Question

Whiptail lizard show:
A. Periodic parthenogenesis
B. Paedogenic parthenogenesis
C. Obligatory parthenogenesis
D. Incomplete parthenogenesis

Answer 1

Hint: It is a form of reproduction in which an egg can develop into an embryo without being fertilized by a sperm. It is partially considered as an asexual mode of reproduction since it does not involve two separate parents. It is a form of survival mechanism which imitates genetic cloning.

Complete answer: Whiptail lizard is a species of desert grassland. In the plethora species of whiptail lizards, only female reptiles can be found. Itis due to reproduction through an asexual method of reproduction known as parthenogenesis. Parthenogenesis is a form of reproduction in which an egg can develop into an embryo without being fertilized by a sperm from a male parent. Obligatory parthenogenesis is the process by which organisms reproduce by asexual means. In a few species, it is the only method of reproduction. Obligatory parthenogenesis is also called complete or total parthenogenesis since, in this process, meiosis is either totally lacking or followed by a compensatory process. This type of reproduction is a serious threat to biodiversity due to the lack of genetic variation and the fitness of offspring. However, it also has some advantages i.e. it can be utilized in research for stem cell production. Hence, it can provide treatment for cell regeneration and can treat serious health conditions.
Hence, the correct answer is option C.

Note: Parthenogenesis is a type of asexual reproduction. This kind of reproduction is commonly witnessed among lower plants and invertebrate animals such as wasps, ants, bees and some higher vertebrates. Parthenogenesis in plants is, however, a component process of apomixis.