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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a characteristic of sexual reproduction?
A
Offspring are genetically identical to the parent.
B
It does not require meiosis.
C
It involves the fusion of gametes from two parents.
D
It produces offspring through mitosis only.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of sexual reproduction: Sexual reproduction is a biological process where offspring are produced by the fusion of gametes (sperm and egg) from two parents. This process results in genetic variation among offspring.
Clarify why offspring are not genetically identical to the parent: In sexual reproduction, genetic material from two parents combines, leading to offspring with a unique combination of genes. This is different from asexual reproduction, where offspring are clones of the parent.
Explain the role of meiosis: Sexual reproduction requires meiosis, a specialized type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, producing haploid gametes. This ensures that when gametes fuse during fertilization, the resulting zygote has the correct diploid chromosome number.
Discuss why mitosis alone is insufficient: Mitosis is a process of cell division that produces genetically identical cells and is involved in growth and repair. It does not produce gametes or contribute to genetic variation, which are essential aspects of sexual reproduction.
Identify the correct characteristic: The defining feature of sexual reproduction is the fusion of gametes from two parents, which introduces genetic diversity in the offspring.