During which type of reproduction do offspring inherit genetic material from two parents?

Sexual reproduction is the process in which offspring are produced through the combination of genetic material from two parents. This typically involves the fusion of male and female gametes—sperm and egg cells, respectively—leading to increased genetic diversity in the offspring. This genetic mixing results in unique combinations of genes that can enhance adaptability and evolution.

In contrast, asexual reproduction involves a single organism producing offspring that are genetically identical to itself, as there is no exchange of genetic material. Processes such as budding and sporulation are specific forms of asexual reproduction where offspring are produced from a part of the parent or from spores, respectively. These methods do not involve the genetic contributions from two different parents, thus they lack the genetic variety seen in sexual reproduction.