What reproductive terms describe A. nerii's method of rapid colony growth?
Answer
Parthenogenetic and viviparous
The rapid build-up of massive colonies by the Oleander aphid, *A. nerii*, is facilitated by its specific reproductive strategy which involves both parthenogenesis and viviparity. Parthenogenesis signifies reproduction without fertilization, meaning all individuals found actively populating colonies in the field are female. Viviparous reproduction means these females give birth directly to live young (nymphs) rather than expending energy laying eggs first. This dual mechanism allows a single founding female to establish and rapidly sustain an entire, growing population very quickly, contributing significantly to their persistence, especially in warm climates where they can reproduce year-round.
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