Question

In a copulatory pair of earthworms, what types of fertilizations occur?

• A. Reciprocal fertilization and external fertilization
• B. Cross fertilization and internal fertilization
• C. External fertilization and internal fertilization
• D. Cross fertilization and reciprocal fertilization

Answer 1

The correct option is B Cross fertilization and internal fertilization

In spite of hermaphroditism, cross-fertilization is observed in the earthworm. In earthworm maturation of sperms occur earlier than that of ova, i.e., Protandrous candition. Breeding begins with copulation soon after maturation of sperms, copulation occurs on the open ground. Two individuals from adjacent burrows half emerge out and lie in contact by their ventral surface in such a position that male genital pores of one lie near spermathecal pores of any one pair of the other (reciprocal fertilization).

So, the correct answer is 'Cross fertilization and reciprocal fertilization'.