Fragmentation

Fragmentation 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.

Overview

In biology, fragmentation is a form of asexual reproduction in which an organism is split into fragments. Each of these fragments develop into mature, fully grown individuals that are clones of the original organism. The cloning process is a natural form of reproduction in many organisms. Fragmentation is seen in many organisms such as mosses, liverworts, lichen, algae, fungi, and many invertebrate animals such as starfish, sea stars, planarians, annelids, and tapeworms.

Process

The process of fragmentation involves the breaking of the body into two or more parts. Each of these parts grows into a separate individual. This process is common in organisms with a simple body organization. In many cases, fragmentation is a form of regeneration where the broken fragments regenerate the lost parts and develop into complete individuals.

Examples

Some examples of fragmentation include the breaking of the mycelium of fungi into a number of segments which develop into new individuals, and the breaking of the body of starfish into several pieces upon injury. Each piece grows into a new starfish.

See Also

• Asexual reproduction
• Regeneration
• Cloning

References

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