Final answer:
Binary fission is the most common method of asexual reproduction in protists, allowing a parent cell to divide into two identical daughter cells. While protists may also reproduce through budding and fragmentation, binary fission is preferred for rapid population expansion. The correct option is 3) fission
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common method of asexual reproduction in protists is binary fission. Protists, which include a wide range of single-celled eukaryotic organisms, often replicate asexually by a process called binary fission, where a parent cell divides into two identical daughter cells.
This method of reproduction ensures that the genetic material of the daughter cells is identical to that of the parent cell, allowing for rapid population expansion under suitable conditions. Protists may also reproduce via budding and fragmentation, but these are less common than binary fission.
In addition to asexual methods, protists can also engage in sexual reproduction, particularly under stress or when environmental conditions change.
Sexual reproduction in protists involves meiosis and fertilization, resulting in offspring with genetic variation. However, when conditions allow for rapid growth, asexual reproduction via binary fission is preferred because it is an efficient way to multiply without the need for a mate. The correct option is 3) fission