Chapter 49, Problem 1TYK

Summary Introduction

Introduction:

Asexual reproduction is a type of reproduction that involves only one parent. The offspring is a clone of the parent and it is also referred to as clonal reproduction. The genetic composition of the parent and the offspring remains the same. It may take place through budding, fission, and fragmentation. The process of mitosis is key for cell division.

Answer to Problem 1TYK

Correct answer:

In sessile animals, asexual reproduction is preferred.

Explanation of Solution

Justification/explanation for the correct answer:

Option (b) is given as sessile animals. Sessile animals are those that cannot move from one place to another. These grow on a substrate and remain intact to it. Asexual reproduction is most successful in such animals, as these animals need to grow at a very fast rate. This increases their population and hence, protects them from predators. Hence, option (b) is correct.

Explanation for the incorrect answers:

Option (a) is given as changing environments. Animals reproducing asexually need a stable environment so that it does not stress the parent for food and other needs for reproduction. Also, changing environments will require animals to be genetically varied so that they can adapt to such an environment. So, it is an incorrect option.

Option (c) is given as densely settled population. A densely settled population will lead to diversity in genes upon reproduction. Also, in such a population, there is always competition for food and other resources that restricts asexual reproduction. So, it is an incorrect option.

Option (d) is given as land animals. Asexual reproduction does occur in land animals but land is subjected to changing environments. These variations in environments do not favor asexual reproduction that affects the diversity in characteristics of the species. So, it is an incorrect option.

Option (e) is given as genetically varied animals. These animals cannot undergo asexual reproduction as genetic variation does not occur in asexually reproducing animals. The genetic makeup of such animals remains the same for both the parent and the offspring. So, it is an incorrect option.

Hence, options (a), (c), (d), and (e) are incorrect.

Conclusion

Therefore, it can be concluded that asexual reproduction is the most successful in sessile animals. These animals are bound to move. They need to be higher in number in order to avoid predators and hence undergo asexual reproduction.