What do chemicals classified under reproductive toxicity affect?

Chemicals classified under reproductive toxicity specifically impact fertility and reproductive rates of animals. This classification indicates that these substances can cause adverse effects on the reproductive system, affecting processes such as gamete production, fertilization, and overall reproductive success. When assessing risks posed by these chemicals, considerations include potential effects on both male and female reproductive health, which can lead to issues like infertility, developmental disorders in offspring, and other reproductive failures.

The other options, while related to biological functions, do not accurately describe the specific effects of reproductive toxicants. For instance, respiratory rates are influenced by different types of toxins that specifically target the respiratory system, and growth rates of plants relate to herbicides or plant growth regulators rather than reproductive toxicity. Similarly, metabolism would pertain to various types of toxicants or chemicals that primarily alter metabolic processes in humans, not specifically relating to reproductive health. Therefore, understanding how these chemicals operate gives insight into the broader implications they may have on wildlife and human health in terms of reproduction.