Many plants can reproduce both sexually and asexually. Which statement below best describes why one method might be more beneficial than the other?(1 point) Responses Asexual reproduction allows plants to skip the process of finding a mate. Asexual reproduction allows plants to skip the process of finding a mate. Asexual reproduction allows plants to avoid having to care for their offspring. Asexual reproduction allows plants to avoid having to care for their offspring. Sexual reproduction provides genetic variation to plants to help them survive in a changing environment. Sexual reproduction provides genetic variation to plants to help them survive in a changing environment. Sexual reproduction guarantees that two plants will provide nourishment for new plantlets.
Sexual reproduction provides genetic variation to plants to help them survive in a changing environment.
The statement that best describes why one method might be more beneficial than the other is: Sexual reproduction provides genetic variation to plants to help them survive in a changing environment.
The statement that "Sexual reproduction provides genetic variation to plants to help them survive in a changing environment" best describes why sexual reproduction might be more beneficial than asexual reproduction.
To understand why this statement is true, we need to understand the advantages of genetic variation. Genetic variation refers to the differences in DNA sequences among individuals of the same species. It is important because it increases the likelihood that at least some individuals will possess traits that allow them to adapt to changing environmental conditions.
In sexual reproduction, two gametes (typically a pollen grain and an egg) from different individuals combine to form a genetically unique offspring. This means that the offspring will inherit a combination of traits from both parents, leading to increased genetic diversity within the population.
On the other hand, asexual reproduction involves the production of offspring without the involvement of gametes or genetic recombination. This means that the offspring are genetically identical or clones of the parent plant. While asexual reproduction allows plants to skip the process of finding a mate and avoid caring for their offspring, it does not introduce new genetic combinations. This lack of genetic variation can be a disadvantage in a changing environment because it limits the ability of a population to adapt to new challenges.
Therefore, sexual reproduction, by providing genetic variation to plants, allows them to have a better chance of adapting to different environmental conditions, increasing their survival and reproductive success.