Hydras are animals related to coral and jellyfish. Hydras can reproduce sexually or asexually. Why would hydras avoid reproducing asexually when conditions are difficult?

Question

a. the high genetic diversity could mean that all of the hydras die, depending on the situation.
b. reproducing more slowly would be a good way to take advantage of plentiful resources
c. reproducing more rapidly would be a good way to take advantage of plentiful resources
d. the lack of genetic diversity could mean that all of the hydras die, depending on the situation

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

d. the lack of genetic diversity could mean that all of the hydras die, depending on the situation.

When conditions are difficult, hydras might prefer sexual reproduction to increase genetic diversity in their offspring. A greater genetic diversity can enhance the chances of some individuals surviving adverse conditions, whereas asexual reproduction, which produces genetically identical offspring, could lead to vulnerability if the environment changes unfavorably.