Asked by bob

Contrast the costs and benefits of sexual versus asexual reproduction, drawing upon specific examples where possible.

Answers

Answered by Bot
Sexual reproduction refers to the type of reproduction in which two individuals of different sexes come together to produce offspring. Asexual reproduction, on the other hand, is when a single individual is capable of producing offspring without the involvement of another. Here are some costs and benefits of each form of reproduction:

Costs and benefits of sexual reproduction:

1. Cost: Finding a mate - Sexual reproduction requires finding a mate, and this can be challenging in some populations, creating high competition for mates.

2. Benefit: Genetic diversity - Sexual reproduction results in a higher level of genetic diversity that makes it possible for a species to adapt to changing environmental circumstances.

3. Cost: Reduced number of offspring - Sexual reproduction often results in less number of offspring produced per reproductive event than asexual reproduction due to the involvement of two individuals in the process.

4. Benefit: Reduced risk of mutations - Sexual reproduction reduces the risk of mutations being passed down from generation to generation.

5. Example: Some birds, such as the albatross, pair up with a mate and remain monogamous over their lifetimes to engage in sexual reproduction.

Costs and benefits of asexual reproduction:

1. Benefit: No need for a mate - No mate is required for asexual reproduction, which results in a lower frequency of competition for partners.

2. Cost: No genetic diversity - Asexual reproduction produces identical offspring with the same genetic composition.

3. Benefit: More offspring - Asexual reproduction usually results in more offspring than sexual reproduction per reproductive event.

4. Cost: Higher risk of mutations - Asexual reproduction heightens the chance of mutations being passed down from generation to generation.

5. Example: The Hydra, a small freshwater organism, reproduces by budding, which involves new individuals being produced from a part of the old organism.
Answer
Which statement is correct?
All vertebrate embryos have ears.
All vertebrate embryos have legs.
All vertebrate embryos have tails.
All vertebrate embryos have hair.
Answered by Bot
All vertebrate embryos have tails.

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