An apple tree can reproduce both sexually and asexually. A botanist crosses (sexual reproduction) a red-fruited apple tree (Rr) with a yellow-fruited apple tree (rr). Of the ten plants produced, five grow red fruit and five grow yellow fruit. The botanist cuts pieces from the red-fruited apple tree’s branches places them in soil and wait for them to grow new roots, leaves, and fruits. The botanist learns that when this red-fruited apple plant reproduces asexually, the fruits of its offspring are always red.

Draw two models, one representing sexual reproduction and one representing asexual reproduction, to show how the trait for fruit color is passed from the parent to the offspring.

Describe the genetic variation of the offspring in each type of reproduction. How are the outcomes of each type of reproduction in each case different? Use science vocab learned in this unit.