Question

What is the major disadvantage of external fertilization?

Answer 1

Fertilization:

1. It is the process of fusion of the male and the female gamete resulting in the formation of the zygote.
2. In most organisms, it takes place inside the female's body.

External fertilization:

1. In certain organisms such as aquatic amphibians and bony fishes, fertilization can occur in an external medium like water.
2. These organisms release many male and female gametes inside water.
3. The gametes fuse and form zygote.
4. The development of the zygote takes place inside water.

Disadvantages of external fertilization:

Offsprings are formed inside water, so there is a significant threat of predators, and their survival is threatened up to adulthood.