Question

Match List-I with List-II regarding different morphs of a typical Aphid

• A. A-I, B-II, C-III, D-IV
• B. A-II, B-I, C-IV, D-III
• C. A-II, B-I, C-III, D-IV
• D. A-I, B-II, C-IV, D-III

Hint:

Aphids use "telescoping of generations," where a developing embryo inside a female already has its own embryo developing inside it. This allows for explosive population growth.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Aphids have highly complex life cycles characterized by polymorphism (multiple forms) and heteroecy (host-switching).
Detailed Explanation:
1. Fundatrix (A): This is the "stem mother." She hatches in spring from an egg that survived the winter. She is wingless (apterous) and reproduces parthenogenetically (without mating) to produce live young (viviparous). (I)
2. Fundatrigeniae (B): These are the daughters of the fundatrix. They remain on the primary host plant and continue wingless, parthenogenetic reproduction to build up the population quickly. (II)
3. Migrantes (C): As the primary host becomes crowded, winged (alate) forms are produced. These "migrants" fly from the primary host to a completely different plant family (the secondary host). (IV)
4. Alienicolae (D): These are the parthenogenetic females that live and multiply on the secondary host plant during the summer months. (III)
The cycle eventually produces sexual forms in autumn that return to the primary host to lay eggs.

Step 2: Final Answer:
The matching sequence is A-I, B-II, C-IV, D-III.