Question

List important characteristics of asexual reproduction.

Answer 1

Asexual reproduction produces offspring without the fusion of gametes.

1. Usually, a single parent is involved.
2. Gametes are not formed; therefore, fertilisation does not occur.
3. Cell division may be mitotic or amitotic.
4. Offspring are generally genetically and morphologically similar to the parent and are called clones.
5. It is usually a rapid method of multiplication, often producing many offspring in a short time.
6. It occurs in many unicellular organisms, fungi, simple animals and plants through vegetative propagation.

Asexual reproduction enables rapid multiplication, but usually produces little genetic variation.