Question

populations that have sexual reproduction can adapt more rapidly to environmental change and so are less like to go extinct that populations that lack sexual reproduction. in many species there is no variation in reproductive type. that is, all members of the species reproduce the same way, if they reproduce at all. this argument suggests that

Answer 1

Sexual reproduction is predominant among eukaryotes despite the apparent advantages of asexual reproduction because it allows for greater genetic diversity. This diversity is critical for adaptation to changing environments and is achieved through meiotic genetic recombination, which provides a survival advantage over asexual reproduction.

Step-by-step explanation:

Sexual reproduction was likely an early evolutionary innovation after the appearance of eukaryotic cells. Most eukaryotes can reproduce sexually, and for many animals, it is the only mode of reproduction. Despite this, asexual reproduction presents apparent advantages such as producing offspring that are genetic clones of the parent, thus well-adapted to an unchanged environment, and not requiring another organism of the opposite sex. However, asexual reproduction only allows genetic variation through mutation, which is a significant disadvantage. In contrast, sexual reproduction, although seemingly less efficient because it involves two sexes and produces fewer offspring, offers a major advantage: genetic diversity. This diversity is key for adaptation and survival in changing environmental conditions. Genetic diversity occurs via meiosis where genetic material can be reassorted and recombined, which provides sexually reproducing populations with the ability to adapt and survive in unpredictable environments, potentially leaving more descendants than asexually reproducing populations.