Write one main difference between asexual and sexual mode of reproduction. Which species is likely to have comparatively better chances of survival – the one reproducing asexually or the one reproducing sexually? Give reason to justify your answer.
Write one main difference between asexual and sexual mode of reproduction. Which species is likely to have comparatively better chances of survival – the one reproducing asexually or the one reproducing sexually? Give reason to justify your answer.
Difference between Asexual and Sexual Reproduction
| Feature | Asexual Reproduction | Sexual Reproduction |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Parents | Involves only a single individual. | Involves two individuals (male and female). |
| Genetic Variation | Offspring are genetically identical or highly similar to the parent; very limited variation occurs only due to minor DNA copying errors. | Offspring show significant genetic variation due to the combination of DNA from two different individuals. |
Survival Advantage
A species reproducing sexually is likely to have comparatively better chances of survival.
Justification
- Adaptability to Changing Niches: Environmental conditions (such as temperature, water levels, or global warming) can change drastically and unpredictably.
- Role of Variation: In an asexually reproducing population, all individuals are genetically identical. If a drastic environmental change occurs, the entire population could be wiped out.
- Survival of the Fittest: In a sexually reproducing population, the combining of DNA from two parents creates unique combinations of variants. If a crisis occurs (e.g., water temperature rises in temperate waters), some heat-resistant variants within the population will survive, reproduce, and ensure the continuity of the species.
Marking Scheme
- 11 mark
- 21 mark
- 31 mark
Hint
Think about how genetic diversity helps a population when the environment undergoes a sudden drastic change, such as global warming.
Quick Oral Answer
Sexual reproduction provides a survival advantage because it combines DNA from two different parents, generating unique variations. These variations help some individuals survive sudden environmental changes, preventing the entire species from going extinct.
Analysis & Explanation
Asexual reproduction is highly efficient in stable environments because it requires less energy and only one parent. However, it lacks the genetic diversity needed to survive dynamic environmental pressures. Sexual reproduction, although energy-intensive, acts as an evolutionary safeguard. By mixing maternal and paternal genomes during meiosis and fertilization, it continuously introduces novel genetic combinations. This genetic diversity is the raw material for natural selection, allowing species to adapt and survive over geological timescales.
Common Mistakes
- 1Stating that asexual reproduction has absolutely zero variation (minor variations do occur due to biochemical inaccuracies in DNA copying).
- 2Confusing individual survival with species survival; variation benefits the species over time, not necessarily the individual.
Interesting Facts
Some organisms, like aphids and certain plants, can switch between asexual and sexual reproduction depending on environmental conditions to maximize both rapid population growth and genetic diversity.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many marks does this question carry in CBSE Class 10 Science 2018?
This question carries 3 marks in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2018 examination.
Which chapter does this question come from in Science?
This question is from the chapter "How do Organisms Reproduce?" in the CBSE Class 10 Science syllabus.
What topic does this question cover in Science?
This question covers the topic "Asexual vs Sexual Reproduction and Importance of Variation" from CBSE Class 10 Science.
What type of question is this in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2018 paper?
This is a Short Answer question from Section A in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2018 paper.