Question 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 Sexual reproduction guarantees that two plants will provide nourishment for new plantlets. Sexual reproduction guarantees that two plants will provide nourishment for new plantlets. Asexual reproduction allows plants to skip the process of finding a mate. Asexual reproduction allows plants to skip the process of finding a mate. 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. 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.
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 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."
To understand why this statement is correct, we need to explore the advantages and disadvantages of both sexual and asexual reproduction in plants.
Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of gametes (egg and sperm) from two different plants, resulting in offspring with a combination of genetic traits from both parents. This genetic variation is crucial for plants to adapt and survive in a changing environment. It allows for the shuffling and recombination of genes, creating individuals that may possess advantageous traits to cope with environmental challenges such as diseases, pests, or climate variations. Genetic diversity also enhances the overall resilience of a population, minimizing the risk of complete extinction if a specific trait becomes disadvantageous.
On the other hand, asexual reproduction involves the production of offspring without the involvement of gametes or the fusion of genetic material from two parents. This method allows plants to reproduce quickly, efficiently, and without the need to find a mate. However, it does not generate any genetic variation because the offspring are genetically identical clones of the parent. This lack of diversity can be a disadvantage in changing environments, as the population may not have the necessary genetic variability to adapt to new conditions.
To summarize, sexual reproduction in plants provides the advantage of genetic variation, which aids in survival and adaptation to a changing environment. Meanwhile, asexual reproduction allows plants to reproduce rapidly but lacks the genetic diversity necessary for long-term resilience.