Summary
Two gametes fuse, mixing genetic material to produce varied offspring.
In depth
Gametes are produced by meiosis, then fuse. Variation arises through crossing over, independent assortment and random fertilisation. Costly but advantageous in changing environments.
Fertilisation can be external (many fish, amphibians) or internal (reptiles, birds, mammals). Internal fertilisation protects gametes from drying.
Remember: meiosis creates haploid gametes so that fertilisation restores the diploid number.
Frequently asked questions
What is Sexual Reproduction?
Two gametes fuse, mixing genetic material to produce varied offspring.
Which area of biology covers Sexual Reproduction, and how advanced is it?
Sexual Reproduction is one of the 54 topics in Reproduction & Endocrinology. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Parthenogenesis, Fertilisation Process, Asexual Reproduction.
Can you give an example of Sexual Reproduction?
The cost of males is the two-fold cost of sex.
What should I learn before Sexual Reproduction?
Sexual Reproduction is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Reproduction & Endocrinology that pair well with it include Reproduction, Asexual Reproduction, Gametes.
What topics are related to Sexual Reproduction?
The closest topics to Sexual Reproduction are Parthenogenesis, Fertilisation Process, Asexual Reproduction, Gametes. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Sexual Reproduction?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Sexual Reproduction. To practise the whole of Reproduction & Endocrinology, use the Reproduction & Endocrinology quiz.
How is Sexual Reproduction different from Parthenogenesis?
Sexual Reproduction: Two gametes fuse, mixing genetic material to produce varied offspring. Parthenogenesis: Development of an egg without fertilisation, found in some insects, reptiles and fish. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Sexual Reproduction step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Parthenogenesis and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Reproduction & Endocrinology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.