Symbionts such as Aeromonas veronii of leeches and Buchnera symbionts of insects are transmitted ________ to ensure the safe transfer of the symbiont to the next host generation.
A) vertically to offspring
B) horizontally through infected water
C) horizontally through infected secondary hosts
D) vertically through the air

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Symbionts that are transmitted vertically are passed down from parent to offspring, ensuring that the offspring acquire the same symbionts as their parents. This is the safest way to transfer symbionts because it minimizes the risk of losing the symbionts during transmission. Horizontal transmission, on the other hand, involves the transfer of symbionts between unrelated individuals, either through infected water or secondary hosts, which can increase the risk of losing the symbionts. Vertical transmission is therefore the best choice for ensuring the safe transfer of symbionts to the next host generation.

Symbionts Such as Aeromonas Veronii of Leeches and Buchnera Symbionts