Final answer:
The major disadvantage of temperature-dependent sex determination is that it can lead to skewed sex ratios, which can have negative impacts on population dynamics and reproductive success.
Step-by-step explanation:
The major disadvantage of temperature-dependent sex determination is that it can lead to skewed sex ratios, which can have negative impacts on population dynamics and reproductive success. In some species, higher temperatures during development result in the production of more males, while lower temperatures produce more females.
This can lead to imbalances in the male-to-female ratio, which can affect breeding opportunities and genetic diversity. For example, if there are fewer females, it can be harder for males to find mates, leading to reduced reproductive success. Additionally, skewed sex ratios can make populations more vulnerable to environmental changes and decrease their ability to adapt.