Which of the following processes is involved in the reproduction of developing organisms?

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks which process is involved in the reproduction of developing organisms. This is a somewhat loosely worded question, so let's look at what each option really means.

Step 2: Review the options

• A. Budding is a form of asexual reproduction (e.g., in yeast and Hydra), where an outgrowth develops into a new individual. It occurs only in certain organisms, not as a general process.
• B. Germination is the sprouting of a seed into a seedling. It is a growth and development process, not reproduction itself.
• C. Fertilization is the fusion of a male gamete with a female gamete to form a zygote. The zygote then develops into an embryo and then a new organism. This is the central event in sexual reproduction, and it occurs in both plants and animals.
• D. Pollination is the transfer of pollen grains from the anther to the stigma. It only occurs in flowering plants and only leads to fertilization, so it is not the fusion event itself.

Step 3: Decide "Developing organisms" points to the formation of a zygote that grows into an embryo. Only fertilization is the universal process that starts this development in sexually reproducing organisms. Budding is limited to a few organisms and is asexual, germination is growth after the seed forms, and pollination is limited to plants and is only a preparatory step.

Correct answer: C. Fertilization

Exam tip: Remember the sequence for flowering plants: Pollination → Fertilization → Seed formation → Germination. Pollination is the transfer, fertilization is the fusion, and germination is the sprouting. When a JAMB question mentions the start of a new individual's development, think zygote formation, which means fertilization.