Whiptail lizards show

Options

A. Periodic parthenogenesis
B. Paedogenic parthenogenesis
C. Obligatory parthenogenesis
D. Incomplete parthenogenesis.

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Parthenogenesis**: Parthenogenesis is a form of asexual reproduction where an embryo develops without fertilization. This means that offspring arise from a single parent and inherit all genetic material from that parent.

2. **Types of Parthenogenesis**: There are two main types of parthenogenesis:
- **Facultative Parthenogenesis**: This type allows organisms to switch between sexual reproduction and parthenogenesis depending on environmental conditions.
- **Obligatory Parthenogenesis**: In this type, organisms exclusively reproduce asexually, without any sexual reproduction.

3. **Identifying Whiptail Lizards**: Whiptail lizards are known to reproduce exclusively through asexual means. They are unisexual reptiles, meaning they do not have males and females; instead, they reproduce through obligatory parthenogenesis.

4. **Eliminating Other Options**:
- **Periodic Parthenogenesis**: This is similar to facultative parthenogenesis, where sexual reproduction alternates with parthenogenesis. This does not apply to whiptail lizards.
- **Pedogenic Parthenogenesis**: This type involves larvae laying eggs that develop into new larvae through parthenogenesis, which is not the case for whiptail lizards.
- **Incomplete Parthenogenesis**: This is also similar to facultative parthenogenesis and does not apply to whiptail lizards.

5. **Conclusion**: Given that whiptail lizards reproduce exclusively through asexual reproduction, the correct answer is **option C: Obligatory Parthenogenesis**.