Sexual Reproduction is Important to the Survival of a Species

Question

Sexual reproduction is important to the survival of a species in a changing environment because
A) sexual reproduction requires only one individual to survive and produce germ cells.
B) All of the answer choices are correct.
C) sexual reproduction requires less overall energy expenditure than asexual reproduction.
D) sexual reproduction produces genetically identical individuals.
E) sexual reproduction produces genetically variable individuals in the population.

Accepted Answer

Sexual reproduction produces genetically variable individuals in the population, which increases the chances of adaptation to changes in the environment. This genetic variability allows for natural selection to act on the population, selecting for individuals with advantageous traits that can help the species survive in changing conditions. Asexual reproduction, on the other hand, produces genetically identical individuals that may not be able to adapt as well to changing environments. Therefore, sexual reproduction is important for the survival of a species in a changing environment. Option A is incorrect because sexual reproduction requires two individuals to reproduce, not one. Option C is incorrect because sexual reproduction usually involves more energy expenditure than asexual reproduction due to the production of gametes and the need for courtship and mating behaviors. Option D is incorrect because sexual reproduction produces genetically variable individuals, not genetically identical ones.