Final answer:
The primary advantage of sexual reproduction over asexual reproduction is the genetic diversity it provides for offspring, enhancing adaptability and chances of survival in changing environments.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary advantage of sexual reproduction over asexual reproduction is its ability to produce genetically diverse offspring. This genetic diversity is achieved through processes such as the random assortment of chromosomes and recombination during gamete formation, leading to offspring with unique genetic make-up. Genetic variation is important as it enhances the ability of a population to adapt to changing environments and can lead to greater biological fitness, ensuring survival and reproduction of the species.
In contrast, asexual reproduction tends to produce genetically identical offspring, which might be advantageous in a stable environment but does not provide genetic diversity necessary for adaptation and survival under changing conditions. While asexual reproduction can rapidly increase a population's size, it lacks the genetic variation introduced by sexual reproduction, making it potentially more vulnerable to environmental pressures and diseases.