What is external fertilization and why do these organisms produce many gametes?
GeneralClass 12AllAnswered 27 Mar 2026
Answer
External fertilization occurs when gametes fuse outside the parent's body, typically in water environments. Fish, frogs, and many aquatic organisms use this reproduction method. These organisms produce thousands to millions of gametes because:
- Many gametes are dispersed by water currents and never meet
- Predators consume a significant number of eggs and sperm
- Environmental factors may destroy gametes before fertilization
- There's no parental protection during fertilization
This strategy of producing large quantities compensates for the low probability of successful fertilization, ensuring that at least some offspring survive to continue the species.
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