Answer to Question #314368 in Zoology for Jem

Question

What do you mean by polymorphism? Explain the function of variouspolymorphic forms of hydrozoa.

Answer 1

Polymorphism refers to the idea that members of the a similar population settlement can take on various visual attributes.

Functions

1.Each polyp can have a different function in the colony. Although they are all genetically identical different genes are expressed to vary the function of the individuals.

2.Polymorphism usually functions to retain variety of form in a population living in a varied environment. The most common example is sexual dimorphism, which occurs in many organisms.

3.Polymorphism refers to the occurrence of structurally and functionally more than two different types of individuals within the same organism. It is a characteristic feature of Cnidarians, particularly the polyp and medusa forms, or of zooids within colonial organisms like those in Hydrozoa.