Question Details

Reproduction cannot be an all inclusive defining characteristic feature of living organisms because

Options

A

living organisms do not show growth

B

many living organisms do not reproduce

C

non living objects are also capable of reproducing

D

all living organisms show a small period of reproductive phase in their life

Correct Answer :

many living organisms do not reproduce

Solution :

The correct option is many living organisms do not reproduce.

Let us understand why reproduction is not considered an all-inclusive defining characteristic feature of living organisms by breaking down the key concepts:

1. Defining Characteristic of Living Organisms:
For any biological process or feature to be classified as a "defining characteristic" of life, it must meet two conditions:
- It must be present in every single living organism without any exception.
- It must not be exhibited by any non-living object.

2. Why Reproduction Fails as a Defining Characteristic:
Although reproduction (the ability to produce offspring) is a characteristic of living systems, there are several living organisms that are completely sterile and cannot reproduce. Classic examples include:
- Mules: Sterile hybrids resulting from the cross between a male donkey and a female horse.
- Worker bees: Sterile female honeybees that perform hive duties but do not reproduce.
- Infertile human couples: Living human individuals who cannot conceive due to various physiological or genetic reasons.

3. Conclusion:
Since all the examples listed above are indisputably living organisms yet do not reproduce, reproduction cannot be considered an all-inclusive defining feature of life. Hence, the correct explanation is that many living organisms do not reproduce.

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