Question

Which of the following is the primary advantage of sexual reproduction when compared to asexual reproduction?

A. There is a greater number of offspring.
B. There is more food available to offspring.
C. There is greater genetic variety in offspring.
D. There is a longer development time for offspring.

Answer 1

The primary advantage of sexual reproduction when compared to asexual reproduction is C. There is greater genetic variety in the offspring.

Asexual reproduction produces offspring that are genetically identical to the parent cells. In contrast, sexual reproduction involves fertilization of sperm and egg, which creates more genetic variation, as do subprocesses within this process like crossing over during prophase.