The purpose of the ovum's zona pellucida is to
A) Make a pathway for more than one sperm to reach the ovum.
B) Allow the 46 chromosomes from each gamete to merge.
C) Prevent multiple sperm from fertilizing the ovum.
D) Stimulate the ovum to begin mitotic cell division.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The zona pellucida is a thick glycoprotein layer that surrounds the oocyte, and its main function is to prevent multiple sperm from fertilizing the ovum. It acts as a barrier, allowing only one sperm to penetrate and fuse with the oocyte membrane, which then triggers the release of cortical granules that harden the zona pellucida and prevent other sperm from entering.

The Purpose of the Ovum's Zona Pellucida Is to