Question

which method of reproduction would be most beneficial for a species to survive in an ecosystem that is undergoing a change?

• asexual reproduction with meiotic cell division
• asexual reproduction with mitotic cell division
• sexual reproduction with meiotic cell division
• sexual reproduction with mitotic cell division

Explanation:

1. First, recall the differences between asexual and sexual reproduction, and mitotic/meiotic cell division:

• Asexual reproduction (with mitotic division) produces offspring identical to the parent, leading to low genetic variation.
• Sexual reproduction involves meiotic cell division (which creates genetic variation via crossing - over and independent assortment) and the combination of genetic material from two parents, resulting in greater genetic diversity.
• In a changing ecosystem, genetic diversity is crucial as it increases the chance that some individuals will have traits suited to the new conditions.
• Meiotic cell division is associated with sexual reproduction (it produces gametes), while mitotic division is for growth, repair, and asexual reproduction (producing clones).

1. Analyze each option:

• Option 1: Asexual reproduction with meiotic cell division is incorrect because meiotic division is not used in asexual reproduction (asexual reproduction uses mitosis to produce genetically identical offspring).
• Option 2: Asexual reproduction with mitotic cell division produces offspring with no genetic variation. In a changing ecosystem, this is a disadvantage as there is less chance of having individuals with adaptive traits.
• Option 3: Sexual reproduction with meiotic cell division is correct. Sexual reproduction combines genetic material from two parents, and meiotic division during gamete formation creates genetic variation (through crossing - over and independent assortment). This genetic diversity increases the species' chances of having individuals with traits that allow survival in a changing environment.
• Option 4: Sexual reproduction with mitotic cell division is incorrect because mitotic division does not create the genetic variation (like meiotic division does) that is associated with sexual reproduction. Mitosis produces cells that are genetically identical to the parent cell, so using mitosis in sexual reproduction would not provide the necessary genetic diversity.

Answer:

C. sexual reproduction with meiotic cell division