Sexual Reproduction
Sexual reproduction is a biological process by which new individual organisms are produced by combining genetic information from two individuals of different sexes. This process involves the fusion of specialized sex cells, called gametes, which contain half the number of chromosomes as normal body cells.
Key Terms:
- Gametes: Sex cells that combine during sexual reproduction to form a new organism.
- Fertilization: The process of the fusion of gametes (sperm and egg) to form a zygote.
- Zygote: The cell formed by the fusion of two gametes; the initial stage of a new organism.
- Meiosis: Cell division process that produces gametes with half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell.
- Genetic Variation: The diversity of genes and alleles in a population.
Process of Sexual Reproduction:
- Production of Gametes: In organisms that reproduce sexually, specialized cells undergo meiosis to produce gametes (sperm and egg).
- Fertilization: The male gamete (sperm) fuses with the female gamete (egg) to form a zygote.
- Genetic Variation: The new organism inherits genetic material from both parents, leading to genetic diversity within populations.
Advantages of Sexual Reproduction:
- Genetic diversity provides a greater chance of survival in changing environments.
- Allows for the elimination of harmful mutations through genetic recombination.
- Enhances the adaptation and evolution of species over time.
Disadvantages of Sexual Reproduction:
- Requires the energy and time to find a suitable mate.
- Increased risk of genetic diseases being passed on to offspring.
- Slower population growth compared to asexual reproduction.
Study Guide:
- Define sexual reproduction and explain the importance of genetic variation.
- Describe the process of meiosis and its role in the production of gametes.
- Compare and contrast sexual reproduction with asexual reproduction, highlighting advantages and disadvantages of each.
- Discuss the significance of sexual reproduction in the evolution and adaptation of species.
- Explain the potential risks associated with genetic diseases in offspring resulting from sexual reproduction.
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