What is sexual reproduction?

Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of two specialized sex cells (gametes) one from each parent to form a new individual via fertilization.

• Male gamete: sperm (animals), pollen (plants)
• Female gamete: egg/ovum (animals), ovule (plants)
• Result: zygote → develops into new organism
• Offspring are genetically unique (not identical to either parent)

Advantage: genetic variation, which helps populations adapt and survive.

Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of male and female gametes to form a genetically unique offspring, driving variation and evolution.