Question

Why do fish and frogs lay eggs and release sperm in hundreds whereas a hen lays only one egg at a time?

• A. One sperm can fertilise many eggs
• B. Only one of the fertilised egg can become an adult
• C. To ensure fertilisation of at least few of them
• D. Many sperms can fertilise one egg

Answer 1

The correct option is C To ensure fertilisation of at least few of them

The number of eggs produced by a species depends on the chances of fertilisation and level of parental care. In fishes and frogs, the eggs get exposed to water movement, wind and rainfall. The chance of fertilisation of the egg increases if a large number of sperms are released. However, in hens, the fertilisation is internal, with higher chances of fertilisation. Therefore, hens lay only one egg at a time.