Earthworms, plz help me!

Question

Earthworms are hermaphrodites. They are able to produce both sperm and eggs, but are not able to fertilize themselves. Explain how being a hermaphrodite is an adaptive advantage for earthworms.

Answer 1

Being a hermaphrodite is an advantage for earthworms because when 2 earthworms mate, they both become pregnant because they are hermaphrodites (earthworm mating is basically two worms rubbing against each other)

if they both become pregnant, it assures that their species retains a safe population number, as a lot of earthworms get killed by cars, kids, drowning, etc. and they often get stepped on.

hope that helps!

Answer 2

As with all hermaphrodites, "both" animals lay eggs or give birth, and this increases their chances for survival.  In animals that reproduce normally, only one gives birth.