Question

Compare the kind of variations introduced within a species that reproduces sexually with another species that reproduces asexually.

Answer 1

• Asexual reproduction results in the formation of offsprings that are identical to the parent and there are no genetic variations through generations as there is no crossing over or exchange of genetic material. The only variations that may be seen during asexual reproduction are the result of mutation.
  
• During sexual reproduction, there is an exchange of genetic material during crossing over. Also, a fusion of two gametes occur and the offspring has a chromosome complement of both the parents. Due to this, the chromosome complement of the offspring is different from that of either parents and variations are seen. During sexual reproduction, the DNA copying mechanism is not accurate, and the resultant errors (mutations) are a source of variations in populations of organisms.

So, while variations during asexual reproduction are only a result of mutation, variations during sexual reproduction may be a result of several factors like crossing over, the fusion of gametes and mutation.