Can you answer all the parts to this question regarding sharks  A: The reproductive organs on a shark are called claspers.  But do they actually clasp the other shark?   B: Why are there two claspers?

Concepts of Biology
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ISBN:9781938168116
Author:Samantha Fowler, Rebecca Roush, James Wise
Publisher:Samantha Fowler, Rebecca Roush, James Wise
Chapter15: Diversity Of Animals
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Can you answer all the parts to this question regarding sharks 

A: The reproductive organs on a shark are called claspers.  But do they actually clasp the other shark?  

B: Why are there two claspers?

 

Expert Solution
Answer 1

Claspers are the reproductive organ or external genitalia in male sharks, these clasper are functionally equivalent to penis in mammals as it is responsible for transferring the male gamete into female genital tract.

The male shark hold the female shark with the help of his teeths and insert the clasper into her cloaca.

The clasper releases sperm in the oviduct of female and hence fertilization occurs.

Yes, the male shark holds the female shark but with the help of his teeths and this process takes place when they are swimming parallel to each other.

Claspers have no role in holding the female, they work as external genitalia for the transfer of gametes.

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