Question

Some redwood trees reproduce both sexually and asexually.



Once a tree reaches maturity, it can reproduce with another tree through pollination and fertilization. The tree then disperses thousands of seeds so that some of them might take root. However, a tree can also reproduce asexually. If it falls down, several smaller trees can sprout from its trunk without the need of fertilization.

Why is it advantageous for a redwood tree to reproduce sexually when it could reproduce asexually instead?
A.
It decreases the need to mate.
B.
It decreases the time needed to reproduce.
C.
It increases the energy needed to reproduce.
D.
It increases the genetic diversity of the offspring.

Answer 1

D. It increases the genetic diversity of the offspring.

Sexual reproduction mixes genetic material from two parents, producing varied offspring that are more likely to survive changing environments and resist disease. Asexual reproduction produces genetically identical clones.