Question

organisms that reproduce sexually, versus asexually, are better at surviving in a rapidly changing environment. which of the following statements supports this?
a. sexual reproduction allows organisms to reproduce at a very fast rate.
b. sexual reproduction allows organisms to reproduce with little resources and energy.
c. sexual reproduction allows a greater number of beneficial mutations to occur in a small period of time.
d. sexual reproduction allows beneficial mutations that occur in separate organisms to combine in the same individual.

Explanation:

• Option A: Asexual reproduction generally allows for faster reproduction rates as it does not require finding a mate and complex mating processes. So, this statement does not support the idea that sexual - reproducing organisms are better in a changing environment.
• Option B: Asexual reproduction often requires less resources and energy (e.g., no need for mate - finding behaviors, less complex reproductive organs in some cases). So, this statement is incorrect for supporting sexual reproduction's advantage.
• Option C: The rate of mutation is not directly related to sexual reproduction. Mutation is a random process that can occur in both sexual and asexual organisms, and sexual reproduction does not inherently increase the number of beneficial mutations in a short time.
• Option D: In sexual reproduction, genetic recombination (through processes like meiosis and fertilization) can bring together beneficial mutations from two different parents (or parent - like organisms in some cases). This genetic diversity can lead to offspring that are better adapted to a changing environment.

Answer:

D. Sexual reproduction allows beneficial mutations that occur in separate organisms to combine in the same individual.