Paramecia typically reproduce by dividing asexually, but they also have a sexual behavior called conjugation.Which of the following emphasizes the value of this sexual process for the survival of paramecia species?
A) Conjugation is a form of reproduction that produces more diverse offspring than asexual reproduction.
B) Paramecia produced through conjugation contain multiple macronuclei, increasing their diversity.
C) Clonal lineages produced through conjugation contain multiple micronuclei, increasing the diversity within the clone.
D) In some species, without conjugation, clones die out after 350 cell divisions.
E) At the end of conjugation, each cell contains two haploid micronuclei, one of its own and one from the other cell.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Choice D emphasizes the value of conjugation for the survival of paramecia species by indicating that, in some species, clones produced through asexual reproduction die out after 350 cell divisions. Conjugation allows for the creation of new genetic diversity that can help paramecia populations persist. The other choices mention aspects of conjugation, but they do not specifically emphasize its importance for survival.

Paramecia Typically Reproduce by Dividing Asexually, but They Also Have