Question

Sexual reproduction involving fusion of two cells in Chlamydomonas is

• A. isogamy
• B. homogamy
• C. somatogamy
• D. hologamy.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

To understand the correct answer to this question, it's important to have a grasp of the different types of sexual reproduction processes observed in organisms, particularly in algae like Chlamydomonas. Let's break down the options provided:

1. Isogamy: This is a form of sexual reproduction that involves the fusion of two morphologically similar gametes. Both gametes appear similar in size and shape.
2. Homogamy: Generally, this term refers to the fusion of similar cells, though it's not commonly used in the context of sexual reproduction in algae like Chlamydomonas.
3. Somatogamy: This process refers to the fusion of somatic cells. It is not typically associated with gamete fusion as required in sexual reproduction.
4. Hologamy: In this type of sexual reproduction, the entire cell acts as the gamete. In the case of Chlamydomonas, the organism itself acts as a gamete and fuses with another of its kind, making it a common example of hologamy.

Based on these definitions, the most appropriate term that describes the sexual reproduction involving the fusion of two Chlamydomonas cells, which act as gametes themselves, is hologamy.

Thus, the correct answer is hologamy.