Many plants can reproduce both sexually and asexually. Which statement below best describes why one method might be more beneficial than the other?

a. asexual reproduction allows plants to skip the process of finding a mate
b. sexual reproduction guarantees that two plants will provide nourishment for new plant-lets
c. sexual reproduction provides genetic variation to plants to help them survive in a changing environment
d. asexual reproduction allows plants to avoid having to care for their offspring.

1 answer

The statement that best describes why one method might be more beneficial than the other is:

c. sexual reproduction provides genetic variation to plants to help them survive in a changing environment.

This is because genetic variation, resulting from sexual reproduction, can enhance a population's ability to adapt to environmental changes and resist diseases, which is crucial for long-term survival.