Asexual and sexual reproduction Original Scenario-Based Download PDF

Questions

1. 1.

   Deep within a bioluminescent subterranean cavern, researchers study two distinct lineages of crystal moss: Population Alpha propagates exclusively by mitotic fragmentation, whereas Population Beta reproduces by forming haploid spores through meiosis followed by gamete fusion. When an unseasonal thermal surge and a novel fungal blight suddenly sweep through the cave system, Population Alpha suffers an immediate and near-total collapse. In contrast, numerous individuals within Population Beta withstand the blight, enabling the colony to endure and regenerate. Which biological principle best explains why Population Beta demonstrated greater survival in this volatile environment?

   • A) Asexual reproduction generates a greater variety of gene combinations, allowing targeted metabolic adjustments to unexpected blights.
   • B) Mitotic cell division produces genetically variable offspring much more rapidly than gamete formation, protecting colonies against severe stress.
   • C) Gamete fusion instantly purges all harmful recessive alleles from the genome, conferring universal disease immunity to every offspring.
   • D) Meiosis and fertilization generate novel allele combinations and genetic diversity, increasing the likelihood that some individuals possess traits suited for unexpected stresses.