AI Summary

Researchers have discovered that a species of stick insect, which has not reproduced sexually for approximately one million years, still retains its biological system for sexual reproduction. This finding suggests that the genetic mechanisms underlying sexual reproduction in this species have not been completely eliminated, even after a prolonged period of asexual reproduction. The stick insects' ability to reproduce asexually has not led to the degradation or loss of their sexual reproductive system. The significance of this discovery lies in its implications for our understanding of the evolution of reproductive systems in organisms. It highlights the complexity and resilience of biological systems, which can persist even when not being used.

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