One advantage of sexual reproduction over asexual reproduction is that

One advantage of sexual reproduction over asexual reproduction is that it helps species to survive over long evolutionary time. This is because sexual reproduction produces :

more offspring in each reproductive cycle.

robust and healthy offspring.

genetically similar offspring.

more variation in offspring.

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This question was previously asked in

UPSC NDA-1 – 2023

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The correct answer is D) more variation in offspring.

Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of gametes from two parents, leading to a combination of genetic material. This process, along with mechanisms like crossing over during meiosis, generates offspring with unique genetic combinations, increasing genetic variation within the population.

Genetic variation is crucial for the long-term survival of a species, especially in changing environments. A diverse gene pool increases the likelihood that some individuals will possess traits that allow them to adapt to new conditions, resist diseases, or survive environmental stresses, thereby ensuring the continuation of the species over evolutionary time. Asexual reproduction, while often faster and producing more numerous offspring in stable environments (countering option A), results in genetically similar offspring, making the population less adaptable to change.

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