Which of the following is a key difference between the life cycle of sexual reproducers compared to asexual reproducers?

• A. Asexual reproducers alternate between haploid and diploid stages, while sexual reproducers remain diploid throughout their life cycle.
• B. Sexual reproducers undergo meiosis to produce gametes, while asexual reproducers do not.
• C. Sexual reproduction results in genetically identical offspring, while asexual reproduction increases genetic diversity.
• D. Asexual reproducers require two parents to produce offspring, while sexual reproducers require only one.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the key concepts of 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. Step 2: Recall the process of meiosis, which is unique to sexual reproduction. Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, producing haploid gametes (sperm and egg cells). Asexual reproduction does not involve meiosis.
3. Step 3: Consider the genetic outcomes of each type of reproduction. Sexual reproduction increases genetic diversity due to the mixing of genetic material from two parents, while asexual reproduction results in offspring that are genetically identical to the parent.
4. Step 4: Evaluate the statement about the number of parents required. Sexual reproduction requires two parents to contribute genetic material, whereas asexual reproduction involves only one parent.
5. Step 5: Compare the statements provided in the problem to the biological principles discussed above. Identify the correct answer based on the fact that sexual reproducers undergo meiosis to produce gametes, while asexual reproducers do not.