the fungi of the genus ophiocordyceps infect and alter the behavior of insects during their life cycles. the altered behavior of infected insects allows the fungi to release millions of reproductive spores. which statement describes why the release of millions of spores leads to increased reproductive success for ophiocordyceps when compared to fungi that do not release as many spores

Question

a. it provides an alternative food source for many forest insects and other fungi.
b. it allows for the infection of more insects to carry out the life cycle for the next generation of fungi.
c. it prevents the growth of invasive organisms within ecosystem.
d. it creates habitats for other spores to become established to grow.

Answer 1

The correct statement that describes why the release of millions of spores leads to increased reproductive success for Ophiocordyceps compared to fungi that do not release as many spores is:

b. it allows for the infection of more insects to carry out the life cycle for the next generation of fungi.

This option highlights the direct benefit of releasing a large number of spores, as it increases the potential for infecting more insects, which is essential for the continuation of the Ophiocordyceps life cycle.