Living things multiply by reproduction. Although most happen between two organisms reproducing sexually, there are some plants, insects and animals that reproduce on their own. This is known as asexual reproduction.
In this method, only one single parent is needed and this can be happen in five different ways. These are spore formation, binary fission, regeneration, vegetative propagation and budding. It has also been the reproduction form used by most single-celled organisms. Here is a look at the benefits and drawbacks of this reproduction method.
List of Pros of Asexual Reproduction
1. There is no need for a mate.
One advantage of this reproduction category is the ability of a parent to produce an offspring without having to look for a partner which can be difficult especially if there is scarcity of potential mates. Unlike in sexual reproduction where one has to look for a suitable mate in order to procreate, once a parent is ready to reproduce, it can do so at the right time.
2. It does not require change in location most of the time.
Once a suitable environment is present, the parent need not have to look for different places to produce its offspring. This way, reproduction can be faster and larger in number. Sexual reproduction on the other hand, may not be viable in one location all the time, especially in harsh conditions.
3. Asexual reproduction has a short gestation or growth period.
With the relatively short time needed to multiply or create a new life, population increase is faster. This can be very helpful if there is an extreme importance to populate. In cases of building colonies, with asexual reproduction, this will not be impossible. Even if there are predators endangering the population, through this method, new organisms or insects can be born rapidly. Moreover, not too much energy is exerted by the parent to reproduce.
List of Cons of Asexual Reproduction
1. Genetic mutation happens.
Although not needing a mate can be advantageous, it also has a downside since the single parent can pass all its genetic traits to its offspring. If there are negative or damaged genes, all these will be inherited by the new organism.
2. There is the absence of diversity.
An obvious disadvantage of asexual reproduction has something to do with the offspring having same genetic traits with the parent. And since this will be the same with all the other new organisms produced, survival might not be good especially when it comes to adapting to new environments.
3. Problems may arise if there are a large number of new organisms.
If there is only parent to feed or sustain organisms, this can be a problem especially when it comes to providing food. And if the parent has defective genes that it has passed on to the new organisms, it can lead to the disappearance of the asexual species.
Conclusion
Asexual reproduction is part of the natural process. To some animals and plants, this is essential. Regardless of its advantages and disadvantages, it is an important process needed in the continuance of life on the planet.