A process whereby plant generations alternate as sexual and asexual reproducers—gametophytes and sporophytes, respectively.
One of the two major varieties of reproduction (along with sexual reproduction), In contrast to sexual reproduction, which involves two organisms, asexual reproduction involves only one. Asexual reproduction occurs when a single cell divides through mitosis to form two daughtercells, which are genetically identical to the parent cell.
The process in asexual reproduction whereby a single cell divides to form two daughter cells that are genetically identical to the parent cell.
A cell, group of cells, or organism that contains genetic information identical to that of its parent cell or organism.
A specialized genetic process whereby clones are produced. Cloning is a form of asexual reproduction.
A DNA-containing body, located in the cells of most living things, that holds most of the organism's genes.
The transfer of pollen from one plant to another.
The material inside a cell that is external to the nucleus.
A term for a cell that has the basic number of doubled chromosomes.
Deoxyribonucleic acid, a molecule in all cells, and many viruses, that contains genetic codes for inheritance.
A female gamete.
A protein material that speeds up chemical reactions in the bodies of plants and animals without itself taking part in or being consumed by those reactions.
The process of cellular fusion that takes place in sexual reproduction. The nucleus of a male reproductive cell, or gamete, fuses with the nucleus of a female gamete to produce a zygote.
A reproductive cell—that is, a mature male or female germ cell that possesses a haploid set of chromosomes and is prepared to form a new diploid by undergoing fusion with a haploid gamete of the opposite sex. Sperm and egg cells are, respectively, male and female gametes.
In alternation of generations, a gametophyte is a plant that reproduces sexually.
One of two basic types of cells in a multicellular organism. In contrast to somatic or body cells, germ cells play a part in reproduction.
A term for a cell that has half the number of chromosomes that appear in a diploid or somatic cell.
The process of cell division that produces haploid genetic material. Compare with mitosis.
A process of cell division that produces diploid cells, as in asexualreproduction. Compare with meiosis.
The control center of a cell, where DNA is stored.
Female reproductive organ that contains the eggs.
Female haploid gametophyte of seed plants, which develops into a seed upon fertilization by a pollen grain.
A type of reproduction that involves the development of a gamete without fertilization. In other words, a sex cell (usually female) is reproduced without actual intercourse between male and female.
Male haploid gametophyte of seed plants (including angiosperms and gymnosperms), which unites with the ovule to form a seed. Pollen is a fine, powdery substance consisting of microscopic grains.
The transfer of pollen from the male reproductive organs to the female reproductive organs of a plant. Pollination precedes fertilization. See also cross-pollination.
A biological process among some lower animals whereby a severed body part is restored by the growth of a new one.
One of the two major varieties of reproduction (along with asexual reproduction). In contrast to asexual reproduction, which involves a single organism, sexual reproduction involves two. Sexual reproduction occurs when male and female gametes undergo fusion, a process known as fertilization, and produce cells that are genetically different from those of either parent.
One of two basic types of cells in a multicellular organism. In contrast to germ cells, somatic cells (also known as body cells) are not involved in reproduction; rather, they make up the tissues, organs, and other parts of the organism.
A male gamete.
In alternation of generations, a sporophyte is a plant that reproduces asexually.
A diploid cell formed by the fusion of two gametes.
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