Question

Higher organisms have resorted to sexual reproduction in spite of their complexity. Why?

Answer 1

Higher organisms have evolved to use sexual reproduction despite its complexity because it provides several important advantages over asexual reproduction. These advantages include:

1. Genetic diversity: Sexual reproduction allows for the creation of offspring that are genetically diverse, which increases their chances of survival in changing environments. Genetic diversity enables organisms to adapt to new situations, resist diseases and parasites, and respond to environmental stress.
2. Repair of genetic damage: Sexual reproduction enables organisms to repair genetic damage through the exchange of genetic material between two individuals. This helps to remove deleterious mutations from the population and increase the overall fitness of the offspring.
3. Elimination of harmful genes: Sexual reproduction provides a mechanism for the elimination of harmful genes from the population. This is because harmful mutations are less likely to be passed on in sexual reproduction as they are diluted by the mixing of genetic material.
4. Evolutionary innovation: Sexual reproduction allows for the creation of new combinations of genetic material, which can lead to evolutionary innovation. This can result in the development of new traits and adaptations that enhance the survival and reproductive success of the offspring.
5. Increased resistance to disease: Sexual reproduction also increases resistance to disease, as the mixing of genetic material can lead to the creation of offspring with greater immune system diversity, enabling them to fight off a wider range of pathogens.