Summary Reproductive Strategies in Animals

Reproductive Strategies in Animals


Reproduction Overview

●​ Reproduction: Production of a new generation from an existing one; ensures species
survival.​

●​ Goal of species: Maximize number of surviving offspring using minimal energy
(reproductive effort).​



Types of Reproduction

Asexual Reproduction

●​ Found in less complex, microscopic animals.​

●​ Low energy requirement (low reproductive effort).​

●​ Involves one parent only.​

●​ No gametes; development by mitosis.​


Sexual Reproduction

●​ Found in vertebrates; more complex.​

●​ High energy input (high reproductive effort).​

●​ Involves two parents.​

●​ Requires gametes; involves meiosis and mitosis.​



Reproductive Strategies

●​ Adaptations (structural, functional, behavioural) to ensure:​

○​ Successful fertilisation.​

○​ Survival of offspring.​

, ●​ Help species breed successfully and reach reproductive maturity.​



Reproductive Behaviour

●​ Behaviours ensure that individuals:​

○​ Meet and recognise each other.​

○​ Mate and produce viable offspring.​

○​ Behaviours increasing survival to maturity are advantageous.​



Reproductive Strategies Covered

1.​ Courtship​

2.​ External vs. Internal Fertilisation​

3.​ Ovipary, Ovovivipary, Vivipary​

4.​ Amniotic Egg​

5.​ Precocial vs. Altricial Development​

6.​ Parental Care​



Courtship

Purpose

●​ Ensures both sexes are ready to mate.​

●​ Helps females identify same-species mates.​

●​ Allows females to choose strong, healthy mates (better offspring).​


Rituals

●​ Series of species-specific behaviours.​