What is a requirement for sexual reproduction?

Sexual reproduction requires finding a mate, which is essential for the process of combining genetic material from two parents. This method of reproduction typically involves the production of specialized sex cells, such as sperm and eggs, that must meet for fertilization to occur. The necessity of locating a suitable partner to ensure genetic diversity is a key aspect of sexual reproduction, as it resulted in offspring that inherit traits from both parents, contributing to the genetic variability within a population.

The other options do not accurately represent the requirements of sexual reproduction. For instance, low energy investment does not apply in this context because sexual reproduction often involves a higher energy cost related to the search for mates and the development of gametes. Immediate offspring production is more characteristic of asexual reproduction where organisms can produce clones quickly without the need for a mate. Lastly, a uniform genetic population is not a requirement of sexual reproduction; in fact, sexual reproduction aims to enhance genetic diversity rather than uniformity by mixing genetic material from two different parents.