Animal Kingdom Question 28
28. Most appropriate term to describe the life cycle of Obelia is
(a) metagenesis
(b) metamorphosis
(c) alternation of generations
(d) neoteny
Show Answer
Answer : a
Hints & Solutions
(a) Metamorphosis is the gradual transformation of the embryo to the adult through a larval and pupal stage. Alternation of generation is seen in the plant kingdom wherein a haploid gametophyte generation alternates with diploid sporophyte generation. Phenomenon of sexual reproduction by a larva is known as neoteny e.g. Axolotl larva. In Obelia polyps reproduce medusaes asexually and medusae form the polyps sexually. Such alternation of asexual and sexual phases in the life cycle of Obelia is called metagenesis.
