Final answer:
Sexual reproduction enhances resistance to diseases and parasites because it produces genetically varied offspring, providing crucial benefits for a population's long-term survival despite its higher fitness cost.
Step-by-step explanation:
The high fitness cost of sexual reproduction may be offset by the advantage of producing genetically varied offspring because c) It enhances resistance to diseases and parasites. Sexual reproduction generates genetic diversity, which can enhance the survival and adaptability of a population in a changing environment. This diversity is crucial in providing resistance against diseases and parasites, which can quickly decimate a population of genetically similar individuals.
While sexual reproduction is more energy-consuming and produces fewer offspring than asexual reproduction, the benefits of genetic variation outweigh the costs. Genetic diversity is vital for a population's long-term survival, especially in unpredictable or fluctuating environments where adaptability is key.