A disadvantage of asexual reproduction is that the offspring are genetic clones and there is lack of genetic variation among the offspring.
Further Explanation:
Reproduction Reproduction is one of the characteristics of living organisms. All living organisms undergo reproduction to give rise to new offspring.
There are two types of reproduction
Sexual reproduction This is a type of reproductions that involves fusion of gametes from the male and female organisms. This type of reproduction results to offspring that are genetically different from the parent organisms.
Advantages
Enhances genetic variation of the species Offspring are genetically different from the parents
Offspring have ability to adapt to harsh environmental conditions
Disadvantages
It occurs at a slower rate Takes lots of time and energy to get a mate It is less reliable A desirable trait in the offspring cannot be restored.Asexual reproduction
It is a type of reproduction that involves only a single organisms of a species which forms new offspring through division by processes such as mitosis. An example of a type of asexual reproduction is binary fission in bacteria, budding and fragmentation in plants.
Advantage of asexual reproduction
It is faster compared to sexual reproduction Large number of offspring are produced from a single parent.
Energy is not required to look for a mate
Large number of organisms enhances survival in case of change in environmental conditions.
Disadvantages asexual reproduction
Offspring are genetic clones which means they are all identical to the parent Extreme conditions such as extreme population can wipe out an entire colony
Genetic diversity among organisms is hindered.
Keywords: Reproduction, sexual reproduction, asexual reproduction
Learn more about: Types of reproduction:
Asexual reproduction:
Difference between asexual reproduction and sexual reproduction:
Level: High school
Subject: Biology
Topic: Reproduction
Sub-topic: Asexual and sexual reproduction
