A species has evolved an asexual mode of reproduction by having offspring develop from unfertilized eggs.Which of the following will be TRUE of this species' response to natural selection?
A)The species will increase in numbers because genetic variation is increased.
B)The species will compensate for loss of genetic variation by hybridizing with other species.
C)There will be fewer deaths from natural selection because sexual recombination always leads to extinction.
D)There will be less genetic variation from recombination and a risk of not adapting quickly to environmental change.
E)There will be more deaths from natural selection because there is no mutation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Asexual reproduction does not involve genetic recombination, which means that the offspring are essentially clones of the parent. Without the mixing of genetic material, there will be less genetic variation in the population, making it more difficult for the species to adapt to environmental changes. This means that the species will be at a greater risk of not surviving and evolving.

A Species Has Evolved an Asexual Mode of Reproduction by Having