Genetics CGP Topic 3
Sexual an Asexual Reproduction
Reproduction is the biological process by which new individual organisms. are produced.
Somatic cells are any cell of a living organism other than the reproductive cells.
Sexual Reproduction - the production of new living Asexual Reproduction - type of reproduction that does
organisms by combining genetic information from two not involve the fusion of gametes or change in the
individuals of different types, (Meiosis) number of chromosomes. (Mitosis)
- Genetic variation means that the offspring is - No genetic variation so there is less chance of
more likely to adapt to a changing environment survival and is difficult to adapt to a changing
and involve with natural selection. environment.
- Takes more time (find a mate) and energy so few - Produce lots of offspring quickly because the
offspring is produced. Male bowerbirds build reproductive cycle is fast. This allows
structures out of twigs and dance to attract. organisms to colonise a new area rapidly.
- Two parents are needed which can be a problem - One parent needed so reproduction can
is individuals are isolated. Polar bears travel far. happen whenever conditions are favourable
without having to wait for a mate.
Sexual an Asexual Reproduction
Reproduction is the biological process by which new individual organisms. are produced.
Somatic cells are any cell of a living organism other than the reproductive cells.
Sexual Reproduction - the production of new living Asexual Reproduction - type of reproduction that does
organisms by combining genetic information from two not involve the fusion of gametes or change in the
individuals of different types, (Meiosis) number of chromosomes. (Mitosis)
- Genetic variation means that the offspring is - No genetic variation so there is less chance of
more likely to adapt to a changing environment survival and is difficult to adapt to a changing
and involve with natural selection. environment.
- Takes more time (find a mate) and energy so few - Produce lots of offspring quickly because the
offspring is produced. Male bowerbirds build reproductive cycle is fast. This allows
structures out of twigs and dance to attract. organisms to colonise a new area rapidly.
- Two parents are needed which can be a problem - One parent needed so reproduction can
is individuals are isolated. Polar bears travel far. happen whenever conditions are favourable
without having to wait for a mate.
