Hydras are animals related to coral and jellyfish. Hydras can reproduce sexually or asexually. Why would hydras avoid reproducing asexually when conditions are difficult? (1 point)
Responses
Reproducing more rapidly would be a good way to take advantage of plentiful resources.
Reproducing more rapidly would be a good way to take advantage of plentiful resources.
The lack of genetic diversity could mean that all of the hydras die, depending on the situation.
The lack of genetic diversity could mean that all of the hydras die, depending on the situation.
The high genetic diversity could mean that all of the hydras die, depending on the situation.
The high genetic diversity could mean that all of the hydras die, depending on the situation.
Reproducing more slowly would be a good way to take advantage of plentiful resources.
The lack of genetic diversity could mean that all of the hydras die, depending on the situation.
The correct answer is: The lack of genetic diversity could mean that all of the hydras die, depending on the situation.
Hydras reproduce both sexually and asexually. Asexual reproduction, in this case, refers to the process of budding, where a new individual develops from an outgrowth of the parent. This method allows hydras to rapidly produce new offspring, which might seem advantageous when resources are plentiful. However, reproducing asexually can result in a lack of genetic diversity among the population.
When conditions are difficult, such as limited resources or changing environments, genetic diversity becomes essential for the survival of a species. Genetic diversity enables a population to adapt and overcome challenges by providing a broader range of traits and potential responses to different conditions.
If hydras were to solely rely on asexual reproduction during challenging times, the lack of genetic diversity would make them more vulnerable to adverse conditions. Since all offspring would be genetically identical or very similar to the parent, they would share the same strengths and weaknesses. If a particular condition or stressor arises that the population is not equipped to handle, it could lead to the death of all individuals.
By reproducing sexually, hydras introduce genetic diversity into their offspring. Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of genetic material from two parents, resulting in offspring with a unique combination of traits. This diversity provides a greater chance that some individuals will possess advantageous traits that allow them to adapt and survive in changing or adverse conditions.
Therefore, hydras avoid reproducing asexually when conditions are difficult because the lack of genetic diversity increases their risk of extinction depending on the situation.