Question

Some organisms are capable of asexual and sexual reproduction. Under favorable conditions, reproduction produces asexually. When conditions become more stressful reproduction switches to a sexual mode. Why?
A. Sexual reproduction is simple and more rapid allowing larger numbers of offspring to be produced.
B. Sexual reproduction requires two separate individuals, who can mutually provide nutrient support during stress.
C. Sexual reproduction produces individuals with new combinations of recombined chromosomes increasing diversity.
D. Asexual reproduction requires more energy.

Answer 1

Hint: The potential for genetic variation in offspring is greatly increased by sexual reproduction, increasing the chances that the resulting offspring will have genetic advantages. In fact, each offspring is almost certain to be genetically distinct, varying from both parents and any other offspring. Variety is necessary for the population to adapt to changes in the environment. Individuals are produced as carbon copies through asexual reproduction. Populations are devoid of variety. As a result, they are unable to adapt well when population changes occur.

Complete Step by Step Answer:
Reproduction is the process by which an organism reproduces its own offspring. As a result, their species does not face extinction. Reproduction can occur with the participation of a single or two parents. We can divide reproduction into two types based on this.

Asexual reproduction is a type of reproduction in which a single parent divides and reproduces its offspring on its own. Sexual reproduction is a process wherein two parents collaborate to produce their offspring.

Sexual reproduction is a natural method of reproduction in humans, animals, and the vast majority of plants. This form of reproduction is somewhat more complex and time-consuming than asexual reproduction. Furthermore, sexual reproduction provides the benefit of variation, as each offspring is unique. Therefore, sexual reproduction produces individuals with new combinations of recombined chromosomes increasing diversity.
Unlike asexual reproduction, sexual reproduction is a slow process. As it is the result of the fusion of two opposite-sex gametes, it produces more variations than the parent. Thus, the first option is incorrect.

The correct option is C.



Note: Asexual reproduction requires less energy than sexual reproduction because finding a suitable mate requires a lot of energy. It does not consume a lot of the parents' energy. Asexual reproduction necessitates only one parent. Even though only one organism is present, the species can grow. Asexual reproduction produces offspring who are exact replicas of their parents.