Question

Bacteria are organisms that reproduce asexually. How is this better for them

Answer 1

Answer:

C. They can grow to larger populations more quickly

Explanation:

Bacteria are the key entities of biogeochemical cycles (Nitrogen, Carbon, Oxygen, etc.) on Earth. The strength of these cycles is typically achieved when they can multiply faster in a relatively short time period. If all bacteria on Earth start reproducing via sexual means only, then many of the biogeochemical cycles would take forever, thus generating nutrients at a slower rate. Since higher organisms (e.g. eukaryotes) depend on the abundant supply of nutrients, the overall life on Earth would be compromised to a larger extent in the absence of sufficient nutrients supply. Thus, it is  beneficial for all forms of life that bacteria reproduce mainly via asexual means.

PS: A simple bacterium can produce millions of copies in 24 hours period.