Final answer:
The statement is true; sexually reproducing plants have lower rates of extinction than asexually reproducing plants due to increased genetic diversity allowing better adaptation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that sexually reproducing plants tend to have lower rates of local extinction than asexually reproducing plants is generally considered true. Sexual reproduction enhances genetic diversity within a population by combining the genes of two different parents. This diversity allows sexually reproducing populations to adapt better to changing environmental conditions and pests, thus reducing their risk of extinction. In contrast, asexual reproduction often involves a single parent, producing offspring genetically identical to itself, which can be disadvantageous in a changing environment.
Sexual reproduction can use pollinating agents like insects or wind, and results in a mixing of genetic material that can lead to greater variability and resilience in the face of environmental stressors. However, sexual reproduction does not necessarily yield more numerous offspring more rapidly compared to asexual reproduction. In some cases, asexual reproduction can be a quicker way to reproduce, as it often involves fewer steps and does not rely on external factors like pollination.
Moreover, the risk of genetic homogeneity in asexual populations makes genetic diversity through sexual reproduction crucial. For example, when farmers limit the sexual reproduction of food crops, they may face concerns such as reduced plant fitness due to mutations in asexual reproduction, large portions of the population being susceptible to diseases, or reduced viability in an agricultural setting.