Asexual reproduction

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Asexual Reproduction

Asexual reproduction (pronunciation: /ˌeɪsɛksjʊəl rɪˌprəʊdʌkʃən/) is a type of reproduction that involves the offspring arising from a single organism, and inherits the genes of that parent only. The term "asexual" derives from the Greek "a" meaning "not" and "sexual", referring to reproduction processes that do not involve combining genetic information from two individuals.

Types of Asexual Reproduction

There are several types of asexual reproduction, including:

  • Binary Fission: This is a form of asexual reproduction and cell division used by all prokaryotes (bacteria and archaea) and some organelles within eukaryotic organisms.
  • Budding: In this form of asexual reproduction, a new organism develops from an outgrowth or bud due to cell division at one particular site.
  • Fragmentation: This is a form of asexual reproduction where an organism is split into fragments. Each of these fragments develop into mature, fully grown individuals that are clones of the original organism.
  • Parthenogenesis: This is a natural form of asexual reproduction in which growth and development of embryos occur without fertilization.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Asexual reproduction can be advantageous as it allows for rapid reproduction without the need for a mate. However, it can also be disadvantageous as it does not allow for genetic diversity, which can lead to a lack of adaptability in changing environments.

Related Terms

  • Mitosis: A type of cell division that results in two daughter cells each having the same number and kind of chromosomes as the parent nucleus, typical of ordinary tissue growth.
  • Meiosis: A type of cell division that reduces the number of chromosomes in the parent cell by half and produces four gamete cells. This process is required to produce egg and sperm cells for sexual reproduction.
  • Cloning: The process of producing similar populations of genetically identical individuals that occurs in nature when organisms such as bacteria, insects, or plants reproduce asexually.

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