Question

Which of the following is not hermaphrodite?
A. Earthworm
B. Leech
C. Taenia
D. Ascaris

Answer 1

Hint:- A hermaphrodite is an organism having both male and female sex organs present in a single organism either partially or completely. The reason for having both the sexes in a single organism could be an abnormal condition or natural way of reproduction.

Complete answer:
Many invertebrates are hermaphrodite that do not possess separate male and female organisms and both the male and female sex organs are present in all organisms. In such organisms, hermaphroditism is a natural situation. It enables these organisms to reproduce sexually and any one of the partners can act as female or male, or sometimes both the partners act as male transferring male gametes to each other. Hermaphroditism in vertebrates is seen as rare and is limited to some fishes only. Examples of hermaphrodites are earthworms, pulmonate snails, etc.
From the above given options, earthworm, Leech, and Taenia are hermaphrodites having both male and female sex organs in the same organism while Ascaris is not a hermaphrodite having separate male and female organisms. Thus the correct option is (D) Ascaris.

Additional information:
Ascaris, commonly known as roundworm, is a genus of parasitic worms which are found in the small intestines of many vertebrates, and thus are known as ‘small intestinal roundworms’. Their eggs are present in the soil and feces, and if consumed can infect the organisms.
The male and female organisms are distinct in appearance. Females are generally longer than the males. Also, the body of the male Ascaris is more slender than that of a female.

Note:- Ascaris is also found as a parasite in the small intestine of human beings. The species of the Ascaris that parasites humans is Ascaris lumbricoides, which is the largest intestinal roundworm. It causes the disease known as ascariasis in humans.