Sexual Reproduction Leading to Offsprings being Different from Parents

Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of male and female gametes (sperm and egg) in a process called fertilisation.
Each parent contributes half of the genes, resulting in the offspring having a unique set of genes - 50% from each parent.
These genes determine an offspring’s traits, which might not exactly resemble those of either parent, leading to genetic variation among offspring.
Genetic variation is desirable as it increases a population’s ability to adapt to changes in the environment.
Variations can occur due to the random assortment of chromosomes during the process of meiosis. This happens during gametogenesis, when sex cells are made.
Additionally, during the process of meiosis, crossing over or recombination can occur. This is when chromosomal segments are exchanged between a pair of homologous chromosomes, providing another opportunity for variation.
Mutations can also add to the genetic variation. These are random changes in genetic material that can occur naturally or due to environmental influences. Some mutations may be beneficial while others can be harmful or have no impact at all.
Sexual reproduction results in offspring that are genetically different from each other and from their parents. This is contrasted with asexual reproduction, which produces genetically identical offspring.
Natural selection can then act on these variations. Offspring with traits that adapt better to their environment have higher odds of surviving, reproducing, and passing on their traits. This process, over generations, leads to evolution.
Another aspect is selective breeding (artificial selection) where humans breed plants and animals for specific genetic characteristics. This can increase variance within a species. However, artificial selection can also lead to reduced genetic diversity.