why are species that reproduce sexually more likely to survive a sudden change in the environment that those species that reproduce asexually?
Answer (1)
Species that reproduce sexually tend to have a higher likelihood of surviving sudden environmental changes compared to asexual species for several reasons:Genetic Variation: Sexual reproduction creates genetic diversity among offspring due to the combination of genes from two parents. This variation increases the chances that some individuals will possess traits that help them survive in a changing environment.Adaptation Potential: The greater genetic diversity allows for a wider range of responses to environmental pressures. If conditions change (e.g., new predators, diseases, or climate shifts), sexually reproducing populations can adapt more quickly over generations through natural selection.Resistance to Disease: Populations with more genetic variation are generally more resilient to diseases. A genetically diverse population is less likely to be wiped out by pathogens that may exploit specific vulnerabilities present in a more homogenous (asexually reproducing) population.Environmental Resilience: Sexual reproduction may enable populations to explore new ecological niches or adapt to varied conditions, giving them an edge in fluctuating environments.Evolutionary Flexibility: Over time, sexually reproducing species can evolve traits that may not be advantageous in the current environment but can provide benefits if conditions change again in the future.In contrast, asexual reproduction results in offspring that are genetically identical to the parent, which can limit the ability to adapt to new challenges and may lead to population declines if the environment changes drastically.
