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Multiple Choice
Some insect females are able to store sperm in __________ until environmental conditions are favorable for the development of their offspring.
A
cloacae
B
gonads
C
seminal vesicles
D
ovaries
E
spermathecae
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of sperm storage in insects: Some female insects have specialized structures that allow them to store sperm after mating. This adaptation helps them control the timing of fertilization based on environmental conditions.
Identify the function of each option: Cloacae are common chambers in some animals for excretion and reproduction, gonads are organs that produce gametes, seminal vesicles are typically associated with male reproductive systems for storing and producing seminal fluid, and ovaries are female reproductive organs that produce eggs.
Recognize the correct structure for sperm storage: Insects use spermathecae, which are specialized sacs or tubes within the female reproductive system, to store sperm until conditions are optimal for fertilization and development.
Consider the ecological advantage: Storing sperm allows female insects to delay fertilization until conditions such as temperature, food availability, or habitat are suitable for the survival of their offspring.
Apply this knowledge to the problem: Knowing the function of spermathecae helps you understand why it is the correct answer for the structure used by female insects to store sperm.