Choose a disadvantage w.r.t. asexual reproduction

Options

A. It is uniparental
B. Young ones are exact replica of their parent
C. Simpler than sexual reproduction
D. There is no mixing of genetic material

Answer

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Definition of Asexual Reproduction**: Asexual reproduction is a mode of reproduction that involves only one parent organism. It results in offspring that are genetically identical to the parent, known as clones.

2. **Characteristics of Asexual Reproduction**:
- It is uniparental, meaning only one parent contributes to the offspring.
- The offspring are exact replicas of the parent organism.
- There is no fusion of gametes, which distinguishes it from sexual reproduction.

3. **Methods of Asexual Reproduction**: Common methods include:
- **Budding**: Seen in organisms like yeast, where a new organism develops from a bud on the parent.
- **Fragmentation**: The organism breaks into pieces, each capable of growing into a new organism.
- **Spore Formation**: The parent organism produces spores that can develop into new individuals.

4. **Disadvantage of Asexual Reproduction**: The primary disadvantage of asexual reproduction is the lack of genetic variation. Since the offspring are clones of the parent, there is no mixing of genetic material.

5. **Impact of Lack of Variation**:
- The absence of genetic variation means that all offspring have the same genetic makeup as the parent.
- This can lead to a lack of adaptability in changing environments, making the species more vulnerable to diseases and environmental changes.

6. **Conclusion**: While asexual reproduction is simpler and faster than sexual reproduction, the significant disadvantage is the lack of genetic diversity, which is crucial for the survival and adaptation of species.

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