The best reason(s) why there are two sexes in most species is because...

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BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

The question asks for the best reasons why there are two sexes in most species, and provides several statements to evaluate.
Option a: 'it maintains genetic variation' — This is a strong justification. Sexual reproduction combines genetic material from two parents, increasing recombination and genetic diversity in offspring, which is advantageous for adaptation and survival in changing environments.
Option b: 'the very smallest and the very largest gametes would have been selected over time' — This aligns with the concept of anisogamy and the evolutionary rationale for having two distinct gamete sizes (small motile sperm and large non-motile or nutrient-rich eggs). Divergent gamete sizes imply selective pressures that favor two sexes rather than a continuum, helping explain the origin of two mating types in many lineages.
Option c: 'it leads to sexual dimorphism' — While sexual reproduction can contribute to sexual dimorphism, this statement is not a foundational or universal reason for the existence of two sexes. Dimorphism is a consequence that may arise in many species, but it is not a necessary causal explanation for the existence of two distinct sexes.
Option d: 'all of the above' — Since option c is not a core causal reason for the existence of two sexes, this blanket choice is not correct.
Option e: 'a & b' — This option correctly identifies the two solid, foundational reasons (genetic variation and anisogamous divergence) and excludes the weaker or non-essential rationale present in c.
In sum, a and b capture the essential evolutionary pressures that favor two distinct sexes, while c describes a secondary outcome rather than a driving cause, making d incorrect and e the best consolidated choice.

ANTH 1050-090 Fall 2025 ANTH 1050-090 Exam 1

The best reason(s) why there are two sexes in most species is because...

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