1. Ch 5-4 Asexual Reproduction
The creation of an offspring from a single parent
Offspring are genetically identical to the parent
Prokaryotes use Binary Fission
Very similar to mitosis
Easier because
No nucleus
Less DNA
DNA is circular
No spindle fibers

2. Binary Fission

3. Asexual Reproduction - Advantages
More efficient
Do not have to find a mate or attract a mate
All offspring can reproduce
If parent was well suited to environment, offspring are identically well suited
Disadvantages
If parent is not well suited to the environment or it changes, the offspring will likely not survive
No genetic diversity

4. Asexual Reproduction - Advantages
Who uses Asexual Reproduction?
Prokaryotes (ex: bacteria)
Simple Plants (ex: strawberries and potatoes)
Sea stars
Flatworms
Hydras
Yeast
***Some organisms can reproduce both asexually and sexually