What is a potential energy cost of sexual reproduction?

The choice indicating high energy requirements for courtship and gamete production accurately describes a significant potential energy cost associated with sexual reproduction. In sexual reproduction, organisms often invest considerable energy in producing gametes (sperm and eggs) and engaging in courtship behaviors to attract mates. Producing these gametes can require more resources than asexual reproduction, where offspring can be generated without the need for such intricate reproductive processes.

Furthermore, courtship rituals can involve various behaviors that are energetically expensive, such as displaying physical traits, performing dances, or engaging in vocalizations. All these activities consume energy and can impact the organism's overall fitness if they divert resources away from other survival needs, such as foraging, escaping predators, or maintaining health.

Thus, while sexual reproduction can lead to greater genetic diversity and adaptability in populations, the energy expenditure related to courtship rituals and gamete production poses a tangible cost that organisms must manage.