Igcse Model Questions Vol1 2019 Biology Question 9

Practice essay / theory question 9 from the 2019 Igcse Model Questions Vol1 Biology examination. This question covers Fertilisation, Hormonal regulation of pregnancy, Gestation period, Reproductive strategies .

Igcse Model Questions Vol1 2019 Biology Essay / Theory
Topics: Fertilisation Hormonal regulation of pregnancy Gestation period Reproductive strategies
Question 9 IGCSE_MODEL_QUESTIONS_VOL1 • 2019 • BIOLOGY • essay

A female rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) has been artificially inseminated and is being monitored throughout her pregnancy. The normal gestation period for this species is 31 days.

Question Parts

( a )
Describe the sequence of events from fertilisation to implantation in a typical mammalian pregnancy, stating where fertilisation normally occurs and the key cellular changes that take place.
( b )
Explain the role of progesterone in maintaining pregnancy in rabbits and discuss the likely consequences if progesterone levels were to fall sharply before day 25 of gestation.
( c )
The rabbit in this case gave birth after 28 days instead of the normal 31 days. Discuss at least two plausible biological reasons for this shortened gestation and the possible effects on the newborn kits.
( d )
Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of viviparous (live‑birth) versus oviparous (egg‑laying) reproduction in mammals, focusing on parental investment, offspring survival and environmental constraints.

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About This Question

This is Igcse Model Questions Vol1 2019 Biology Question 9. It is one of the essay questions from the 2019 Igcse Model Questions Vol1 Biology examination.

The question covers Fertilisation, Hormonal regulation of pregnancy, Gestation period, Reproductive strategies .

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