Here's why:

* Genetic Code: Both animals and plants use DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) as their genetic material. This DNA contains the instructions for building and maintaining an organism.

* Reproduction: Reproduction involves the passing on of genetic information from parents to offspring.

* Animals: Animals reproduce sexually, combining genetic material from two parents through the process of fertilization.

* Plants: Plants can reproduce both sexually (involving flowers, pollen, and seeds) and asexually (e.g., through cuttings or runners). Both methods still rely on the genetic information encoded in their DNA.

Therefore, both animals and plants depend on the genetic code to ensure the continuity of their species through reproduction.