In katydids, male parental investment consists of the gift of a protein-rich nuptial meal in the form of a spermatophore.
A) The gift is especially important to females when food is scarce, and during these times females compete for males.
B) The spermatophore is important to successful reproduction because both the number and fitness of the female's offspring are enhanced by the male's gift.
C) When food is plentiful the relative value of the gift declines, and males compete for females.
D) All of the above.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

All the statements are correct regarding the role and significance of the spermatophore in katydids. The spermatophore provides nutritional benefits to females, especially important when food is scarce, leading to female competition for males. It enhances offspring number and fitness, and its value changes with food availability, affecting mating competition dynamics.

In Katydids, Male Parental Investment Consists of the Gift of a Protein-Rich