Final answer:
The consequence of asexual reproduction in a plant is that its entire genetic legacy can remain intact since it produces genetically identical offspring. However, this lacks genetic diversity and could be disadvantageous if environmental conditions change. The correct option is D.
Step-by-step explanation:
A consequence of asexual reproduction in a plant is that d. its entire genetic legacy can remain intact. Asexual reproduction involves a single organism giving rise to offspring that are genetically identical to the parent.
This process ensures that if the parent plant is well-suited to its environment, the identical offspring will be as well.
However, it also means that there is no genetic diversity, which could be detrimental if the environment changes and requires new genetic traits for survival.
Sexual reproduction, on the other hand, combines the genetic information from two parents, leading to offspring with diverse phenotypes.
This genetic variation is crucial for the survival of a population in a changing environment because it increases the likelihood that some offspring will possess traits that allow them to adapt and survive.
Thus, while asexual reproduction ensures the propagation of a successful genotype, it carries the risk of making the entire lineage vulnerable to extinction if conditions change. The correct option is D.