While developing within its egg, a bird is exposed to androgens deposited into the yolk by its mother while the egg formed in her ovaries. First-laid eggs have the lowest androgen levels, with levels increasing with each egg laid; thus, first-laid eggs can be used in experimental manipulations. When black-headed gulls (Larus ridibundus) from an experimental group (birds hatched from first-laid eggs injected with androgens and sesame oil) were compared with those from a control group (those hatched from first-laid eggs injected only with sesame oil), the experimental birds exhibited
A) delayed hatching.
B) depressed rates of begging for food.
C) suppressed growth.
D) suppressed immune function.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Androgens are known to have immunosuppressive effects, which means that birds exposed to higher levels of androgens, such as those in the experimental group, would likely exhibit suppressed immune function compared to those in the control group.

While Developing Within Its Egg, a Bird Is Exposed to Androgens