Bacteria, Protists, Fungi and Animals Asexual Reproduction Bacteria, Protists, Fungi and Animals

What is Asexual Reproduction? The formation of a new individual from a single organism. Has identical genetic information as its parent. Yes, that’s right. These organisms can reproduce all on their own, they never need to find a partner!

Binary Fission Parent cell divides so that each new cell contains a single chromosome carrying a complete set of DNA identical to its parents First it copies its single chromosome, then divides into two new identical cells.

Fragmentation This happens for some organisms like mushrooms and corals. A small piece or fragment breaks away from the main mass and grows into a new individual.

Budding A copy is made of the nucleus, next a tiny bud begins to form on the cell wall. The bud contains the new nucleus and continues to grow larger. Eventually it breaks away to become a new independent cell. Happens in yeast

Spores A reproductive cell that can grow into a new individual through mitotic cell division. Spores are stored in a case called a sporangium. Ferns reproduce this way.

Regeneration These organisms reproduce by dividing in two and regenerating the parts they are missing. Planaria worms and sea stars can do this. It’s really strange…