Final answer:
Sexual reproduction can be beneficial to a population but can be detrimental to an individual offspring due to genetic diversity, competition for mates, and division of resources.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sexual reproduction can be beneficial to a population but can be detrimental to an individual offspring due to several reasons:
- Genetic diversity: Sexual reproduction results in offspring with diverse phenotypes, which may enhance the survival of a population in a changing environment. Having a wide range of genetic variations allows a population to adapt and evolve more effectively.
- Competition: In sexual reproduction, there is competition among individuals to find mates and reproduce. This competition can be intense and may limit the chances of survival and reproduction for some individuals.
- Division of resources: During sexual reproduction, resources like energy and nutrients are divided between the parent and offspring. This can reduce the resources available for the parent's own survival and future reproduction.