Cell Division, Reproduction, and Genetics Terminology

Key vocabulary terms and definitions covering cell division, modes of reproduction, inheritance patterns, and genetic concepts.

Cell division

The process in which a cell divides into two daughter cells.

Reproduction

The process through which organisms create copies of themselves, ensuring the continuation of their species.

Asexual reproduction

The process in which some organisms produce offspring that are genetically identical to the parent; does not involve gametes.

Binary fission

The asexual reproductive process in which prokaryotic cells divide in half.

Budding

A type of asexual reproduction in which offspring develop from an outgrowth or bud due to cell division at one particular site of a parent organism.

Fragmentation

A type of asexual propagation in which a fragment breaks off from the parent organism and develops into another genetically identical individual.

Sexual reproduction

The process in which organisms produce a variety of offspring via the fusion of the egg and sperm; involves gametes.

Allele

A form of a gene that occupies a specific position on a specific chromosome.

Homozygous

The condition in which both alleles for a given trait are the same.

Heterozygous

The condition in which both alleles for a given trait are different.

Trait

A variant of an inheritable feature.

Dominant trait

A trait that is always expressed when its allele is present.

Incomplete dominance

The inherent state where there is no dominant gene to be fully expressed in the heterozygous genotype.

Codominance

The inherent state characterized by full expression of both alleles in the heterozygous genotype.

Recessive trait

A trait masked by the presence of a dominant trait.

Pleiotropy

Genes that affect multiple traits; the ability of a gene to have multiple phenotypic effects.

Genotype

The genetic makeup of an organism.