Asexual Reproduction

What is reproduction?

The process that involves the creation of more species through either asexual or sexual reproduction.

What are the two main types of reproduction?

Asexual reproduction and sexual reproduction.

What is asexual reproduction?

The ability to reproduce without the fusion of gametes, resulting in offspring that are genetically identical to the parent.

List the types of asexual reproduction.

Binary fission, spore/seed formation, budding and fragmentation (invertebrates), vegetative propagation, parthenogenesis (vertebrates).

What occurs during binary fission?

Prokaryotic cells (bacteria) copy their circular chromosomes before dividing into two daughter cells.

What happens during spore or seed formation?

Some organisms such as fungi or plants produce spores via mitosis which can disperse to a new location.

Give examples of organisms that reproduce via spores.

Fungi and some plants.

What happens during budding and fragmentation?

Simple invertebrates such as coral and jellyfish grow polyps or body parts that eventually detach and grow into new organisms.

Give examples of organisms that reproduce through budding or fragmentation.

Starfish and hydra.

What is vegetative propagation?

A process where many plants produce special stems or structures that can develop their own roots and form new plants.

Give examples of vegetative propagation structures.

Runners (strawberries), bulbs (onions), tubers (potatoes), and suckers (bananas).

What is parthenogenesis?

A process where some organisms fertilise their own eggs, producing genetically identical offspring without a male.

Give an example of an organism that reproduces via parthenogenesis.

Certain species of fish, reptiles, or insects.

List the advantages of asexual reproduction.

Reproduce quickly, use less energy, and require only one parent.

List the disadvantages of asexual reproduction.

Low genetic diversity, and organisms are more prone to disease and selection pressures.

Why does asexual reproduction lead to low genetic diversity?

Because offspring are genetically identical to the parent, limiting variation.