Reproduction is essential for living organisms to continue the species generation after generation.
Explanation: Reproduction is the biological process by which organisms create new offspring, ensuring that a species persists across generations. If organisms did not reproduce, their population would eventually die out, meaning reproduction is crucial for the continuation of the species.
Why other options are incorrect:
(a) keep the individual organism alive:
Reproduction is not directly related to the survival of an individual organism. An individual organism can stay alive without reproducing. Basic needs like food, water, air, sunlight, and habitat are essential for individual survival.
(b) fulfill their energy requirement:
Reproduction does not fulfill an organism’s energy requirements. Energy is obtained through processes like eating and respiration.
(c) maintain growth:
Growth is a process that occurs in an individual organism as it develops. Reproduction is separate from growth, although it is necessary for the continued growth of a species across generations.