Video Transcript
Which of the following is true
about asexual reproduction in plants? (A) Asexual reproduction in plants
takes much more time than sexual reproduction. (B) Asexual reproduction only needs
one parent plant. (C) Asexual reproduction will make
plants that are genetically diverse. Or (D) plants can only use asexual
reproduction if the soil conditions are right.
Reproduction is a life process that
ensures the continued survival of a species. There are two main types of
reproduction: sexual and asexual. Let’s take a look at the major
features of each of these so we can find the correct answer to our question.
Sexual reproduction involves the
fusion of male and female gametes, also known as sex cells. For example, sexual reproduction in
humans begins with fertilization, when the male gamete, or sperm, fuses with the
female gamete, or egg. Sexual reproduction usually
requires two parents, although there are some exceptions, such as plants that can
self-pollinate. Because each biological parent
contributes half of its genes to sexually produced offspring, they are genetically
unique. It can take a while for organisms
to find a mate and go through fertilization, as well as for the offspring to
develop. So, sexual reproduction takes a
relatively long time.
Asxeual reproduction does not
involve gamete fusion. Only one parent is needed. So, the resulting offspring have
the same genetic makeup as their parent. We often refer to these organisms
as clones. Because no time is needed to find a
mate or for fertilization to occur, asexual reproduction is typically faster than
sexual reproduction.
Now that we have reviewed the two
major methods of reproduction, let’s check out our answer choices. We just learned that asexual
reproduction tends to be faster than sexual reproduction. So, we can rule out option (A). Asexual reproduction only needs one
parent. So, option (B) looks like it may be
the correct answer. But let’s check the remaining
choices to be sure.
The offspring of asexual
reproduction are not genetically diverse but rather are genetically identical
clones. So, let’s eliminate answer (C). Most plants need to grow in soil
with certain properties, such as a specific acidity and nutrient content. However, proper soil conditions are
needed not just for asexual reproduction, but for all of the plant’s life processes,
including growth and sexual reproduction. So, we can rule out choice (D) and
confirm (B) as the correct answer. The true statement is “Asexual
reproduction only needs one parent plant.”
