Which of the following environment factors plays a role in sex determination of few reptiles?

Correct option is D

Correct Answer:D. Temperature

Explanation:
In certain reptiles, the temperature at which eggs are incubated during a critical period of development determines the sex of the offspring. This phenomenon is known as Temperature-Dependent Sex Determination (TSD).

Key Points:

1. Reptiles with TSD:
• TSD is observed in species like crocodiles, turtles, and some lizards.
• For example:
• In turtles, higher incubation temperatures often result in females, while lower temperatures produce males.
• In crocodiles, moderate temperatures produce males, and extreme temperatures (high or low) result in females.
2. Mechanism:
• Temperature affects the activity of certain enzymes and hormones that regulate the development of sex-specific traits during embryonic growth.
3. Evolutionary Significance:
• TSD may allow populations to adapt to changing environments by producing a sex ratio that enhances survival under specific conditions.