In the ant caste system, which group is primarily responsible for reproduction in the colony?

In the ant caste system, which group is primarily responsible for reproduction in the colony?

• A. Queen
• B. Drones
• C. Soldiers
• D. Workers

Answer: (A)

In ant colonies, the ability to reproduce is concentrated in the queen. She has ovaries and stores sperm from mating with drones, then lays fertilized eggs that develop into the next generation. Workers and soldiers are typically sterile and handle foraging, care of brood, and nest duties, while drones are males whose main role is to mate with a queen. Through pheromonal signals, the queen’s reproductive role is maintained as the primary source of offspring, making her the best answer.

In ant colonies, the ability to reproduce is concentrated in the queen. She has ovaries and stores sperm from mating with drones, then lays fertilized eggs that develop into the next generation. Workers and soldiers are typically sterile and handle foraging, care of brood, and nest duties, while drones are males whose main role is to mate with a queen. Through pheromonal signals, the queen’s reproductive role is maintained as the primary source of offspring, making her the best answer.