# Compare sexual reproduction and asexual reproduction in terms of the genetic variation produced in offspring. Explain why sexual reproduction is advantageous to a species in a changing environment.

> AQA GCSE Biology (8461) — 4.6.2 Variation and evolution · Compare · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Sexual reproduction produces genetically varied / non-identical offspring
2. Asexual reproduction produces genetically identical offspring (clones)
3. Variation in sexual reproduction arises because gametes from two parents are combined at fertilisation
4. In a changing environment, some variants are more likely to survive / be better adapted, so the species is less likely to become extinct

## Key terms

- [sexual reproduction](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/sexual-reproduction)
- [asexual reproduction](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/asexual-reproduction)
- [genetic variation](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/genetic-variation)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA GCSE Biology (8461)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Compare" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/compare-sexual-reproduction-and-asexual-reproduction-fd09e8c8) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.