In which one of the following kinds of organisms is the phenomenon found wherein the female kills the male after copulation?

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Q: 28 (IAS/2008)
In which one of the following kinds of organisms is the phenomenon found wherein the female kills the male after copulation?

question_subject: 

Science

question_exam: 

IAS

stats: 

0,35,66,13,38,35,15

keywords: 

{'organisms': [4, 1, 3, 2], 'honeybee': [0, 0, 1, 0], 'copulation': [0, 0, 1, 0], 'dragonfly': [0, 0, 1, 1], 'spider': [0, 0, 0, 1], 'female': [0, 0, 1, 1], 'pit viper': [0, 0, 1, 0], 'male': [2, 0, 2, 1], 'phenomenon': [3, 4, 7, 15], 'kinds': [1, 0, 3, 7]}

The phenomenon of the female killing the male after copulation is observed in Option 3: Spider.

In certain species of spiders, including the black widow and the redback spider, sexual cannibalism is a well-documented behavior. After mating, the female spider may engage in the act of killing and consuming the male. This behavior has been observed in order to provide the female with additional nutrients, as the male`s body serves as a valuable food source.

Sexual cannibalism in spiders serves various purposes. First, it ensures that the female receives a substantial amount of nutrition, which is especially important for her reproductive success. By consuming the male, she gains vital energy and nutrients needed for egg production. Additionally, this behavior may eliminate potential competitors for resources or mating opportunities, increasing the female`s chances of passing on her genes.

Female spiders are often larger and more powerful than males, which makes it easier for them to overpower and kill their mates. Male spiders have evolved different strategies to minimize the risk of being cannibalized, such as performing specific courtship rituals, using silk to restrain the female`s fangs during mating, or choosing smaller females as mates.

It`s important to note that not all species of spiders exhibit sexual cannibalism, and it can vary depending on environmental factors, mating systems, and species-specific behaviors. In contrast to spiders, dragonflies, honeybees, and pit vipers do not typically display this behavior, making Option 3 (Spider) the correct answer in this context.

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