What is the result of combining traits not found in either parent during fertilization?

• A. Homologous recombination
• B. Clonal selection
• C. Important goals for an organism
• D. Autosomal inheritance

Answer: (C)

The result of combining traits not found in either parent during fertilization reflects the concept of genetic variation and potential adaptation that can occur in offspring. This can happen through mechanisms like independent assortment and recombination, leading to new trait combinations that are not seen in the parent generation. These novel traits can provide new opportunities for survival and evolution, enabling organisms to better adapt to their environments. This idea aligns well with the overall goals of reproduction and evolution—ensuring the continuation and improvement of species.

While homologous recombination and clonal selection involve specific genetic processes, they do not directly address the creation of new traits that were not present in the parental generations. Autosomal inheritance is a mechanism of inheritance for traits located on non-sex chromosomes, which also does not necessarily imply the introduction of new traits. The option about important goals for an organism encapsulates the overall processes of evolution and adaptation that arise through genetic combination during fertilization.