Life Cycles and Diversity of Sexual Reproduction

Eukaryotes

Organisms whose cells contain a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Asexual Reproduction

Process in which a single individual passes all of its genes to its offspring without the fusion of gametes.

Sexual Reproduction

Creation of offspring via the fusion of gametes that have unique combinations of genes.

Fertilization

The union of gametes to form a zygote.

Binary Fission

A type of asexual reproduction where a single organism splits into two identical organisms.

Budding

A form of asexual reproduction where a new organism develops from an outgrowth or bud from the parent.

Fragmentation

A type of asexual reproduction where a new organism can grow from a piece of the original multi-cellular organism.

Parthenogenesis

Development of a new individual from an unfertilized egg.

Genetic Diversity

Variability in the genetic makeup among individuals in a population.

Isogamy

The fusion of gametes that are of the same size.

Anisogamy

The fusion of gametes that are of different sizes.

Sexual Dimorphism

Observable differences in physical and behavioral traits between males and females of the same species.

Zygote

The fertilized cell after the fusion of gametes.

Meiosis

A type of cell division that reduces the number of chromosomes, creating gametes.

Diploid Dominant

A life cycle in which the diploid stage is the predominant form.

Haploid Dominant

A life cycle in which the haploid stage is the predominant form.

Alternation of Generations

Life cycle pattern where both haploid and diploid multicellular stages occur.

Gametes

Haploid reproductive cells produced by meiosis or mitosis.