How does the number of eggs relate to type fertilization?

The number of eggs produced by an organism is not directly related to the type of fertilization, but it is related to the type of development and parental care. Here's a breakdown:

Fertilization:

* External fertilization: This occurs when sperm fertilizes the egg outside the female's body.

* Internal fertilization: This occurs when sperm fertilizes the egg inside the female's body.

Number of eggs and development:

* Oviparity: Organisms that lay eggs (oviparous) often produce a large number of eggs to compensate for the high mortality rate of eggs and young. This is because eggs lack the protection of a parent's body, and young are often left to fend for themselves.

* Viviparity: Organisms that give birth to live young (viviparous) typically produce fewer eggs (or even just one). This is because the developing embryo receives nourishment and protection within the mother's body.

Number of eggs and parental care:

* High parental care: Organisms that provide extensive parental care (feeding, guarding, etc.) tend to produce fewer eggs. The offspring are more likely to survive with this support.

* Low parental care: Organisms that provide minimal parental care often produce many eggs to ensure at least some survive.

Examples:

* Fish: Many fish species release thousands of eggs into the water (external fertilization, oviparous, low parental care).

* Birds: Birds lay eggs (oviparous), but the number varies greatly. Birds with high parental care (like penguins) produce fewer eggs than birds with low parental care (like chickens).

* Mammals: Mammals give birth to live young (viviparous) and generally have one or a few offspring per pregnancy, often with extensive parental care.

In conclusion:

The number of eggs is not determined by the type of fertilization but rather by the organism's evolutionary adaptations and the environmental pressures it faces.