Which hormone produced in the anterior pituitary gland triggers the development of ova in the ovary?

The hormone responsible for triggering the development of ova in the ovary is Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). This hormone plays a critical role in the reproductive process, particularly in females. FSH stimulates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles, which are the structures that contain developing eggs (ova). As these follicles develop, they also produce estrogen, which is essential for regulating the menstrual cycle and preparing the body for potential pregnancy.

In contrast, luteinizing hormone (LH) is primarily involved in triggering ovulation and the formation of the corpus luteum after an egg has been released. Prolactin is mainly responsible for milk production in the mammary glands and doesn't play a direct role in ova development. Growth hormone, while important for overall growth and metabolism, does not directly influence the maturation of eggs in the ovaries. Thus, FSH's specific action in ovarian follicle development makes it the correct answer.