Correct option is C
Hydra's regenerative abilities are not limited to stem cell-mediated regeneration and morphallaxis alone; they also include epimorphosis, though to a lesser degree compared to the other two processes. Hydra regenerates through a combination of three mechanisms:
Stem cell-mediated regeneration: Hydra has a high density of totipotent stem cells, which can differentiate into any type of cell needed for regeneration. These stem cells play a critical role in regenerating lost parts of the organism.
Morphallaxis: The remaining tissue in Hydra can also reorganize and regenerate parts of the organism by redistributing and re-patterning the existing cells. This form of regeneration is seen in Hydra’s response to smaller injuries.
Epimorphosis: Although less prominent than stem cell-mediated regeneration and morphallaxis, epimorphosis does occur in Hydra. In this process, the existing tissue at the wound's edge grows and forms new tissues, helping in the regeneration of the lost body part.
Therefore, Hydra’s regeneration involves all three processes: stem cell-mediated regeneration, morphallaxis, and epimorphosis, making option (c) the correct answer.
Information Booster:
Stem cell-mediated regeneration: Hydra's remarkable regenerative abilities are primarily driven by its stem cells, which divide and differentiate to form any tissue type required for regeneration. These stem cells are capable of regenerating both small and large body parts efficiently.
Morphallaxis: In addition to stem cell regeneration, Hydra uses morphallaxis, where remaining cells reorganize to re-pattern and regenerate lost structures. This is why Hydra can regenerate even from small pieces of its body.
Epimorphosis: Though epimorphosis is typically more common in organisms like salamanders, Hydra also utilizes this mechanism during regeneration. After a body part is lost, the cells at the wound edge undergo a process of growth and differentiation, contributing to the formation of new tissue at the wound site.
