Asexual and Sexual Reproduction

Flashcards covering key concepts related to asexual and sexual reproduction, cell division, and gametogenesis.

Asexual Reproduction

Reproduction that involves a single organism producing offspring identical to itself without the involvement of sex cells.

Binary Fission

A method of asexual reproduction in which a single cell divides into two identical daughter cells. Common in prokaryotes.

Mitosis

A type of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells, used in asexual reproduction.

Sexual Reproduction

Reproduction that involves the combination of genetic material from two parents, resulting in genetically diverse offspring.

Gametes

Sex cells (sperm and egg) involved in sexual reproduction, contributing to fertilization.

Haploid

A cell that has half the number of chromosomes, typical of gametes produced by meiosis.

Fertilization

The process where the egg and sperm combine to form a zygote.

Apoptosis

The process of programmed cell death that occurs normally in the body.

Telomerase

An enzyme that adds DNA sequence repeats to the end of chromosomes, protecting them from degradation during cell division.

Regeneration

The ability of an organism to regrow certain parts or cells, often seen in various species.