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What is Reproduction?Reproduction is a biological process by which an organism reproduces an offspring that is biologically similar to the organism. Reproduction enables and ensures the continuity of species, generation after generation. It is the main feature of life on earth. Let us have a detailed overview of reproduction, its types and the modes of reproduction in plants and animals. Types of ReproductionThere are basically two types of reproduction:
Asexual Reproduction
Asexual reproduction does not involve the fusion of gametes, and therefore, the offsprings produced are genetically identical to the parent. The organisms produced by asexual reproduction are less diverse in nature. This type of reproduction is practised widely by unicellular organisms. The process involves rapid population growth and no mate is required for the process. However, a lack of genetic diversity makes organisms more susceptible to diseases and nutrition deficiencies. Asexual reproduction is further divided into:
Also Read: Modes of reproduction Sexual Reproduction
In sexual reproduction, male and female gametes are formed to produce an offspring. These gametes are either formed by the same individual or by different individuals of the opposite sex. This process is usually slow and complex compared to asexual reproduction. The organisms so produced are genetically diverse. Thus, they can evolve along with the changing climatic conditions. Humans and many multicellular organisms exhibit a sexual mode of reproduction. Reproduction in PlantsPlants reproduce by sexual and asexual means. Vegetative reproduction is the main mode of plant reproduction. Roots such as a corm, stem tuber, rhizomes and stolon undergo vegetative propagation. Diagram of Asexual Reproduction in PlantsSexual reproduction in plants takes place through pollination in which the pollen grains from the anther of a male flower transfer to the stigma of the female flower. Sexual Reproduction in Plants – DiagramA few plants produce seeds without fertilization and the process is called apomixis. Here, the ovule or the ovary gives rise to new seeds. Also Read: Reproduction in plants Reproduction in AnimalsAnimals reproduce sexually as well as asexually. Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of male and female gametes. This process is known as fertilization. Fertilization can be external or internal. External fertilization is the process in which the male sperm fertilizes the female egg outside the female’s body. On the contrary, in internal fertilization, the fusion of male and female gametes takes place inside the body of the female. Asexual reproduction involves reproduction processes such as binary fission, budding, fragmentation, etc. The organisms have no reproductive systems and therefore no formation of male and female gametes takes place. Thus, we see how beneficial reproduction is to continue life on earth. Recommended Videos:Also Read: Reproduction in animals To know more about reproduction, and different types of reproduction, keep visiting BYJU’S website or download the BYJU’S app for further reference. Frequently Asked QuestionsReproduction is the biological process by which new individual organisms which are known as “offspring” are produced from already existing individuals known as “parents”. Asexual reproduction is a type of reproduction by which offspring arise from a single organism, and inherit the genes of that parent only. It does not involve the fusion of gametes. Different types of Asexual Reproduction are: a) Binary Fission Advantages of sexual reproduction are: The differences between Sexual and Asexual reproduction are:
Which of the following are characteristics of asexual reproduction?Characteristics of Asexual Reproduction
No fertilization or gamete formation takes place. This process of reproduction occurs in a very short time. The organisms multiply and grow rapidly. The offspring is genetically similar.
What best describes the asexual reproduction?Asexual reproduction generates offspring that are genetically identical to a single parent. In sexual reproduction, two parents contribute genetic information to produce unique offspring. Sexual and asexual reproduction have advantages and disadvantages—which is why some organisms do both!
Which of the following best describe of reproduction?User: Which best describes reproduction? Asexual reproduction produces offspring that are identical to the parent. Sexual reproduction allows for diploid gametes to combine to increase genetic variation. Asexual reproduction leads to the formation of haploid gametes.
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