Question

Name and describe the advantages and disadvantages of sexual versus asexual reproduction. Include in your discussion the differences between mitosis and meiosis. Lastly, which phase of meiosis is most similar to mitosis and why?

Answer 1

Answer:

Sexual vs Asexual Reproduction (including differences between Mitosis and Meioisis)

• Asexual reproduction occurs through the process of mitosis and results in genetically identical offsprings. On the other hand sexual reproduction occurs through the process of meiosis and fertilization and results in genetically distinct offsprings.

Advantages of Sexual vs. Asexual Reproduction:

• Sexual reproduction contributes to high genetic variability as compared to asexual reproduction and promotes adaptation. The offsprings produced by the sexual reproduction process are different from parents and the genetic variability helps in adapting and surviving in changing environment.
• Another benefit of sexual reproduction is that diploid cell that is produced contains homologous pair of chromosomes are capable of repair of chromosome damage during the process of meiosis.
• Sexual reproduction involves enhanced reproductive success whereas organisms produced through asexual reproduction are slow to adapt to environment.

Disadvantages of Sexual vs. Asexual Reproduction:

• Sexual reproduction requires two parents wheras asexual reproduction requires only one parent.
• Sexual reproduction takes more time and requires more energy to find a mate whereas asexual reproduction saves energy and many offsprings can be produced quickly.
• Sexually transmitted disease can also be contracted in sexual reproduction.
• Nourishment of offsprings before and after birth is a long and energy consuming process in sexual reproduction.

Meiosis II is most similar to Mitosis because both phases involve lining up of chromosomes and separation of sister chromatids by the action of the spindle fibers.