What is a negative consequence of asexual reproduction?

A negative consequence of asexual reproduction is potential vulnerability to diseases. In asexual reproduction, offspring are genetically identical to the parent, which means that they share the same genetic makeup. This lack of genetic diversity can be detrimental because if the parent organism is susceptible to a particular disease or environmental change, all of its clones will also be susceptible. As a result, a population reproducing asexually may be wiped out by a single pathogen or environmental shift, as there are no genetically varied individuals that might possess resistance or adaptability to these threats.

In contrast, sexual reproduction creates genetic diversity among offspring, which can provide a buffer against diseases and changing conditions, as some individuals may survive even if others do not. This is a critical advantage that helps maintain the resilience of species over time.