BIOLOGY Unit 4 Notes: Types of Reproduction

(1) Types of Reproduction SEXUAL ASEXUAL Requires 2 parent organisms. Requires 1 parent organism. Sperm + Egg fertilize one another to form a Zygote. The single organism makes a copy of itself and divides. The offspring are genetically unique from the parents, but contain a random combination of parental genes. The offspring are genetically identical to the parent. Used by humans, other animals and plants. Used by yeast, sponges, and bacteria. Pros  Produces genetically different babies, increasing the survival rate of the population. Cons  Requires a lot of time and effort. Pros  Extremely efficient. Cons  If the parent has genetic defects / deficiencies, all of its offspring will also be “weak”.

(2) Types of Asexual Reproduction: Binary Fission: The organism makes an identical copy of itself, divides and splits in two. Budding: The parent organism develops a small bud off its side, which develops into an exact copy.

(3) Bacteria & Conjugation Bacterial Conjugation: The process by which bacteria exchange extra special DNA structures (called plasmids) which can increase resistance to antibiotics. When Does This Happen In Us? If you don’t finish a full round of antibiotics… This allows a mix of weaker bacteria to survive, along with the more fit ones (with the plasmids). Bacteria can then pass on their plamids (special DNA). This makes more bacteria resistant to your medicine. What is the Long Term Concern? Some wonder if our overuse of antibacterial body products and antibiotic medicines could be promoting the evolution of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.