Why is 2 sexes so common in nature?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the question of why two sexes are so prevalent in nature, exploring evolutionary implications, reproductive strategies, and the potential advantages and disadvantages of having multiple sexes versus two. The scope includes theoretical considerations, evolutionary biology, and conceptual reasoning.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that having two sexes is simpler and more reliable for reproduction compared to multiple sexes, which could complicate mating processes.
  • Others argue that two sexes allow for greater adaptability than a single sex, while also noting that asexual reproduction can occur without the need for sexes.
  • A participant questions the efficiency of having two sexes, suggesting that a system where any individual could mate with any other could be more advantageous in evolutionary terms.
  • Concerns are raised about the high costs associated with sexual reproduction, including the need for two individuals to survive to reproductive age.
  • Some participants highlight that natural selection can occur with any number of sexes, and that genetic diversity is crucial for adapting to environmental pressures.
  • There are discussions about the role of meiosis in genetic recombination and how this process contributes to genetic diversity, particularly in response to pathogens.
  • One participant mentions that microorganisms can adapt quickly without meiosis, suggesting a different evolutionary strategy compared to multicellular organisms.
  • Questions are raised about the genetic diversity of hermaphroditic species and the potential problems of unrestricted mating among individuals.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views on the advantages and disadvantages of having two sexes versus multiple sexes, with no clear consensus reached. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the optimal reproductive strategy and the evolutionary implications of different sex systems.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include varying definitions of sexual reproduction and asexual reproduction, as well as differing assumptions about the efficiency and effectiveness of reproductive strategies across species.

  • #31
Originally posted by StarkyDee
using more than 10% of our brain
We use all of our brain.
 
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  • #32
Originally posted by Tyro
Asexual reproduction IIRC, as described during my biology lectures [zz)] will not produce the same level of genetic diversity as sexual reproduction.

I said:
I'll say this a few more times, because no one seems to have caught onto it yet: You don't need to have two sexes in order for meiosis => recombination to occur.

Sexual reproduction can be done without need of two exclusive sexes. Why are 2 sexes so predominant?
IOW: I am not talking about asexual reproduction.

For a start you may need a more complicated genetic structure
That isn't necessarily true
 

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