Explain why a plant that reproduces by cross-pollination is more likely to survive a change in its environment than a plant that reproduces only by self-pollination.

Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610) — 16.2 Sexual reproduction · Explain · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

Cross‑pollination produces greater genetic diversity among offspring.
Self‑pollination produces offspring that are genetically similar and less diverse.
Some individuals from cross‑pollination may carry advantageous genes that suit the changed environment.
Those better‑adapted individuals survive and pass on their genes, allowing the species to evolve through natural selection.

Examiner tips

  • Use the exact terms ‘genetic diversity’, ‘self‑pollination’, ‘cross‑pollination’, ‘advantageous genes’, ‘natural selection’.
  • Show the causal chain: diversity → potential advantage → survival → evolution.
  • Keep each point concise and directly linked to the marks scheme.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

  1. Cross-pollination produces greater genetic diversity / variation among offspring
  2. Self-pollination produces offspring that are genetically similar / less diverse
  3. Some individuals produced by cross-pollination may have advantageous genes / alleles that suit the changed environment
  4. Those better-adapted individuals survive and pass on their genes / the species can evolve through natural selection

Key terms in this question

cross-pollination · self-pollination

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