Question

Which of the following correctly represents the life cycle of Obelia?

• A. Polyp $\to$ Sexual Reproduction $\to$ Free-swimming medusa$\to$ Asexual reproduction $\to$ Zygote$\to$ Larvae $\to$ Polyp
• B. Medusa $\to$ Asexual Reproduction $\to$ Free-swimming polyp$\to$ Sexual reproduction$\to$ Zygote $\to$ Larvae$\to$ Medusa
• C. Polyp $\to$ Asexual Reproduction $\to$ Free-swimming medusa$\to$ Sexual reproduction $\to$ Zygote $\to$ Larvae $\to$ Polyp
• D. Polyp $\to$ Asexual Reproduction $\to$ Free-swimming medusa$\to$ Sexual reproduction$\to$ Larvae $\to$Zygote $\to$ Polyp

Answer 1

The correct option is C Polyp $\to$ Asexual Reproduction $\to$ Free-swimming medusa$\to$ Sexual reproduction $\to$ Zygote $\to$ Larvae $\to$ Polyp

The first stage of Obelia’s life cycle is the polyp stage. The polyp buds off, releasing the free-swimming Obelia medusa. Only one parent is involved in the production of medusae, so medusae are produced asexually. The male medusa and the female medusa produce sperms and eggs respectively.

The egg and the sperm fuse to form the zygote which then develops into a free-swimming larva. The larva swims and eventually reaches the ocean floor and develops into a polyp. Since two parents are involved in the formation of the polyp is by sexual mode.