What is a primary characteristic of sexual reproduction?

Sexual reproduction is primarily characterized by the involvement of two parent organisms, each contributing genetic material to create offspring. This process typically requires the fusion of gametes, which are specialized reproductive cells (sperm and egg). This genetic exchange leads to genetic variation among the offspring, which is a significant advantage for the adaptability and evolution of a species.

The involvement of two individuals ensures that the combination of traits can lead to diverse phenotypes, enhancing the resilience of a population in changing environments. In contrast, the other choices pertain to asexual reproduction or do not align with the definition of sexual reproduction. Asexual reproduction involves a single parent and results in genetically identical offspring often produced through methods like fission or budding.