[Campbell Biology P.660] Which statement accurately describes the differences between asexua... | Practice Question

Which statement accurately describes the differences between asexual and sexual reproduction in Chlamydomonas?

  • A: Asexual reproduction primarily occurs under stressful conditions, while sexual reproduction occurs under favorable conditions.
  • B: Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of gametes to form a diploid zygote, whereas asexual reproduction produces haploid zoospores through mitosis.
  • C: Both asexual and sexual reproduction always result in genetically identical offspring.
  • D: Meiosis is a key process in asexual reproduction, leading to the formation of multiple haploid cells.

Explanation

According to the diagram and text: Asexual reproduction Stage 6 involves mitosis of a mature cell to produce zoospores Stage 7 , which are haploid and genetically identical clones. Sexual reproduction Stages 2-5 is triggered by stress, involves the formation and fusion of haploid gametes Stage 3 to form a diploid zygote Stage 3, 4 , which then undergoes meiosis Stage 5 to produce haploid individuals. Therefore, sexual reproduction involves gamete fusion and diploid zygote formation, while asexual reproduction uses mitosis to produce haploid zoospores.