Question

Which of the following is correctly matched?

• A. Spores-Sponge
• B. Conidia-Hydra
• C. Gemmules-Amoeba
• D. Bulbil-Agave

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Let's analyze each option to determine the correct match for asexual reproduction:

• Spores - Sponge: Sponges reproduce sexually and asexually. Asexual reproduction can occur via fragmentation, budding, or the formation of gemmules (internal buds). Spores are generally not associated with sponge reproduction. Therefore, this is incorrect.
• Conidia - Hydra: Conidia are asexual spores produced by certain fungi. Hydra primarily reproduce asexually through budding. Conidia are not involved in Hydra reproduction. Therefore, this is incorrect.
• Gemmules - Amoeba: Gemmules are internal buds found in sponges and some freshwater invertebrates, used for asexual reproduction, particularly to survive unfavorable conditions. Amoeba reproduces mainly by binary fission. Therefore, this is incorrect.
• Bulbil - Agave: Bulbils are small bulb-like structures that develop on the aerial parts of some plants, such as Agave. These bulbils can detach and grow into new plants, representing a form of asexual reproduction. Therefore, this is correct.

Therefore, the correctly matched pair is Bulbil - Agave.

Answer 2

Bulbils are a form of asexual reproduction found in certain plants. They are small, bulb-like structures that develop from the main stem or leaf axils of a plant. Agave, which is a type of succulent plant, can produce bulbils as a means of vegetative propagation.
On the other hand:
(1) Spores are not specific to sponges. Spores are reproductive structures found in various organisms, including fungi, plants, and some protozoa.
(2) Conidia are a type of asexual spores produced by fungi, and they are not associated with Hydra, which is a small aquatic animal.
(3) Gemmules are specialized reproductive structures found in certain sponges, and they are not related to Amoeba, which is a type of single-celled organism.
So, the correct match is (4) Bulbil - Agave.