What is parthenogenesis?

Parthenogenesis is a mode of asexual reproduction in which females produce offspring from unfertilized eggs. This process occurs in several animal species, including some reptiles, insects, and fish, as well as in certain plants. In parthenogenesis, the egg develops into a complete individual without the need for fertilization by a male sperm. The offspring are often genetically identical to the mother, as there is no genetic contribution from a male.

In contrast, the other options involve different reproductive strategies that either require fertilization or describe processes not classified as parthenogenesis. Understanding this distinction is essential in the study of reproductive biology, as various organisms have evolved different methods of reproduction based on their environmental needs and evolutionary pressures.