Question

The spermatheca, which is found in many insects, worms, and mollusks, is useful for _____.

a) Producing eggs
b) Storing sperm
c) Fertilizing eggs
d) Digesting food

Answer 1

The spermatheca is an organ found in many insects, worms, and mollusks used for storing sperm, allowing for timing of fertilization to optimal environmental conditions for offspring survival. The correct answer to the question is b) Storing sperm.

Step-by-step explanation:

The spermatheca is an organ found in many insects, worms, and mollusks that serves a specific reproductive function. In contrast to organs involved with spermatogenesis which is the production of sperm, or those involved with egg production, the spermatheca is primarily used for storing sperm after it has been received from a male. This allows for the strategic timing of fertilization, correlating it with environmental conditions conducive to the survival of offspring. For instance, female insects can store sperm within their spermatheca for extended periods, sometimes up to a year, utilizing it when the conditions are most favorable for the eggs to develop and hatch. Therefore, the correct answer to the student's question is b) Storing sperm.