Which of the following is a distinct disadvantage of sexual reproduction compared to asexual reproduction?

• A. It allows for rapid population growth in a short period.
• B. It requires more energy and time to find a mate.
• C. It eliminates genetic variation among offspring.
• D. It produces offspring that are genetically identical to the parent.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the key differences between sexual and asexual reproduction. Sexual reproduction involves the combination of genetic material from two parents, while asexual reproduction involves a single parent producing genetically identical offspring.
2. Recognize the advantages of sexual reproduction, such as increased genetic variation among offspring, which can enhance adaptability and survival in changing environments.
3. Identify the advantages of asexual reproduction, such as rapid population growth and less energy expenditure since it does not require finding a mate.
4. Analyze the disadvantages of sexual reproduction. It requires more energy and time to find a mate, and the process of combining genetic material is more complex compared to asexual reproduction.
5. Compare the options provided in the question. The correct disadvantage of sexual reproduction is that it requires more energy and time to find a mate, as opposed to the other options which describe characteristics of asexual reproduction.