Imagine that sexual reproduction could occur between hyphae that were the same mating type. How might this affect rates of evolution in fungi?
A)Rates of evolution would be lower because genetic variation would be lower.
B)Rates of evolution would be higher because more novel genetic combinations are generated through sexual reproduction.
C)Rates of evolution would stay the same because as long as sexual reproduction is occurring, it does not matter if it is between individuals of the same or different mating type.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sexual reproduction between hyphae of the same mating type would likely result in lower genetic variation compared to reproduction between different mating types, as there would be less opportunity for novel genetic combinations. Lower genetic variation can lead to slower rates of evolution since there are fewer genetic options for natural selection to act upon.

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