Environmental Cues That Influence the Timing of Reproduction Generally Do

Question

Environmental cues that influence the timing of reproduction generally do so by
A)increasing the body temperature.
B)providing access to water for external fertilization.
C)increasing ambient temperature to that which is comfortable for sex.
D)direct effects on gonadal structures.
E)direct effects on hormonal control mechanisms.

Accepted Answer

Environmental cues can influence the timing of reproduction by directly affecting hormonal control mechanisms in the body. For example, changes in photoperiod (length of day) can stimulate the release of hormones such as melatonin and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which in turn regulate reproductive hormones like luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). These hormones control the development and maturation of gonadal structures essential for reproduction.