ReproductionOxford AQA IGCSE Biology: Flashcards

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Define sexual reproduction.

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Define sexual reproduction.: Sexual reproduction is the process involving the fusion of two gametes (sex cells) from two parents, producing genetically varied offspring that are not identical to either parent.
Define asexual reproduction.: Asexual reproduction is the process involving one parent that produces genetically identical offspring (clones) without the fusion of gametes.
What is the key difference between offspring produced by sexual and asexual reproduction?: Sexual reproduction produces genetically varied offspring that are unique, whilst asexual reproduction produces genetically identical offspring (clones).
Name one advantage of sexual reproduction.: Sexual reproduction produces genetic variation in offspring, which increases the chances of survival if the environment changes, and allows for adaptation to new conditions.
Name one disadvantage of sexual reproduction.: Sexual reproduction requires two parents and takes more time and energy than asexual reproduction, making it less efficient for rapid population growth.
Name one advantage of asexual reproduction.: Asexual reproduction is fast and efficient, allowing a single parent to produce many identical offspring quickly without needing to find a mate.
Name one disadvantage of asexual reproduction.: Asexual reproduction produces no genetic variation, meaning offspring are identical clones, so if a disease or environmental change occurs, all offspring may be equally vulnerable.
Describe binary fission as a method of asexual reproduction.: Binary fission is asexual reproduction in bacteria where a single bacterial cell duplicates its DNA and divides into two genetically identical daughter cells.
Describe budding as a method of asexual reproduction in yeast.: Budding in yeast involves a small outgrowth (bud) forming on the parent cell. The bud develops and eventually detaches, producing a genetically identical offspring cell.
Explain how strawberry plants reproduce asexually using runners.: Strawberry plants produce horizontal stems called runners that grow along the ground. Where runners touch the soil, new plants develop from nodes, creating genetically identical daughter plants.
Describe how bulbs function as a method of asexual reproduction.: Bulbs are underground storage structures that contain a miniature plant. New bulbs grow from the parent bulb and can separate to form genetically identical new plants.
Give two examples of organisms that reproduce asexually.: Bacteria (binary fission), yeast (budding), strawberry plants (runners), and flowering plants with bulbs (such as daffodils and tulips) all reproduce asexually.
Explain why asexual reproduction is particularly useful for plants in stable environments.: In stable environments, genetic variation is less critical for survival. Asexual reproduction allows plants to reproduce quickly and efficiently, producing many identical offspring suited to their stable habitat.
Explain why sexual reproduction is advantageous in unpredictable environments.: Sexual reproduction creates genetic variation in offspring. This variation increases the likelihood that some individuals will have traits allowing them to survive environmental changes or new threats.
What is a clone?: A clone is an organism that is genetically identical to its parent, produced through asexual reproduction.