Asexual vs. Sexual Reproduction

Class Starters What is asexual reproduction? What are some things that reproduce asexually?

Sexual vs. Asexual Sexual reproduction is the creation of an offspring by fusion of a male gamete (sperm) and female gamete (egg) to form a zygote Asexual reproduction is creation of offspring without the fusion of egg and sperm

Asexual Produces offspring that are genetically identical to their parent A new organism (sometimes more than one) is produced from only one organism. Asexual reproduction = one parent.

Variation Note break: Describe the types of variation that may result from asexual reproduction of a plant. Organisms that reproduce asexually cannot develop much variety, because they are “copying” the original organism exactly.

Asexual The primary form of reproduction for single-celled organisms (ex: bacteria) Many plants and fungi reproduce asexually as well. Some animals reproduce asexually as well (sponges, hydras)

Types of asexual Reprudction

Budding Process by which a new-duplicate plant or animal begins to form at the side of the parent and enlarges until an individual is created. Very common in plants Benefits Very rapid

Fission Also called binary fission. Becoming two by division of the complete organism. A type of cell division.

Fragmentation Also known as regeneration The ability to restore lost or damaged tissues, organs or limbs. It is a common feature in invertebrates, like worms and starfish.