Final answer:
The statement about body cell production being classified as asexual reproduction is false. Body cell production occurs through mitosis and is not a form of asexual reproduction. The production of gametes, however, is part of sexual reproduction and takes place through meiosis, resulting in genetically diverse offspring.
Step-by-step explanation:
In animals, the statement that the production of body cells is classified as asexual reproduction is false, while the statement that the production of reproductive cells or gametes is part of sexual reproduction is true. Asexual reproduction in animals usually occurs through processes like fission, budding, and fragmentation, and results in offspring that are genetically identical to the parent.
On the other hand, sexual reproduction happens when the genetic material from two parents combine during fertilization to produce genetically unique offspring. This typically involves the production of haploid gametes (sperm and eggs) through a process known as meiosis. The fusion of these gametes forms a diploid zygote which develops into a new organism.
The production of body cells, also known as somatic cells, occurs through mitosis which is a cell division process that maintains the diploid chromosome number and generally is not considered as asexual reproduction. Somatic cells are not involved in the reproduction of the organism but are essential for the growth and repair of an organism. Therefore, the production of body cells should not be classified as a form of asexual reproduction.
Therefore, the correct option is (b) False.