What is a key characteristic of sexual reproduction?

A key characteristic of sexual reproduction is the combination of genetic material from two parents. This process usually occurs through the fusion of gametes, such as sperm and egg cells, which contain half of the genetic information from each parent. As a result, the offspring produced through sexual reproduction exhibit genetic variation, which is important for adaptation and evolution within species. This genetic diversity contributes to the resilience of populations, as it allows for a wider range of traits that may improve survival and reproduction in changing environments.

The focus on genetic material from two parents is crucial because it distinguishes sexual reproduction from asexual reproduction, which typically involves only one parent and results in offspring that are genetically identical to that parent. In contrast, the uniqueness of each sexually reproduced offspring arises from the genetic mixing that occurs during fertilization.