Which of the following statements is true regarding sexual reproduction in organisms?
Answer Details
Sexual reproduction in organisms involves the fusion of gametes from two parents, resulting in offspring with genetic variation. This means that the offspring inherit traits from both parents, leading to a combination of their genetic material.
This process starts with the production of specialized cells called gametes by each parent. These gametes, such as sperms and eggs, contain half the number of chromosomes as other cells in the body. When two gametes fuse during sexual reproduction, they form a new cell called a zygote. The zygote then develops into an offspring with a unique combination of genes from both parents.
This genetic variation is beneficial to the survival of a species. It allows for adaptation to changing environments. For example, if one parent has a genetic trait that provides resistance to a certain disease, there is a chance that the offspring may inherit that trait and be better equipped to survive if they encounter the same disease.
In contrast, asexual reproduction involves the production of offspring through a single parent, resulting in genetically identical offspring. This can occur through processes such as budding, fragmentation, or binary fission. In asexual reproduction, there is no genetic variation, as the offspring are essentially clones of the parent.
So, the true statement regarding sexual reproduction in organisms is that it involves the fusion of gametes from two parents, resulting in offspring with genetic variation.