asexual reproduction
(gcide) | Reproduction \Re`pro*duc"tion\ (-d?k"sh?n), n. [Cf. F.
reproduction.]
1. The act or process of reproducing; the state of being
reproduced; specifically (Biol.), the process by which
plants and animals give rise to offspring.
[1913 Webster]
Note: There are two distinct methods of reproduction; viz.:
asexual reproduction (agamogenesis) and {sexual
reproduction} (gamogenesis). In both cases the new
individual is developed from detached portions of the
parent organism. In asexual reproduction (gemmation,
fission, etc.), the detached portions of the organism
develop into new individuals without the intervention
of other living matter. In sexual reproduction, the
detached portion, which is always a single cell, called
the female germ cell, is acted upon by another portion
of living matter, the male germ cell, usually from
another organism, and in the fusion of the two
(impregnation) a new cell is formed, from the
development of which arises a new individual.
[1913 Webster]
2. That which is reproduced.
[1913 Webster] |