The fact that most eukaryotes reproduce sexually is evidence of its evolutionary success In many animals, it is the only mode of reproduction And yet, scientists recognize some real disadvantages to sexual reproduction On the surface, offspring that are genetically identical to the parent may. The mixing of genetic material from two parents through sexual reproduction creates offspring with unique combinations of traits This genetic diversity is a primary evolutionary benefit, as it increases variation within a population
Such variation enhances a species’ capacity to adapt to unpredictable or changing environmental conditions. Explain how sexual reproduction occurs at the cellular level Summarize what happens during meiosis Compare and contrast gametogenesis in males and females Explain mechanisms that increase genetic variation in offspring produced by sexual reproduction Why do gametes need to be haploid?
In asexual reproduction, unlike sexual reproduction, there is no fusion of gametes, so the offspring are genetically identical to their parents and are therefore clones. This ensures the offspring are genetically different from their parents and even their siblings Mutations can also happen in sexually reproducing species to further add to the diversity of the offspring By the end of this section, you will be able to do the following
OPEN
