PARTHENOGENESIS Meaning and
Definition
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Parthenogenesis is a biological term that refers to a process where an egg or a female organism develops into an individual without undergoing fertilization by male sperm. In other words, it is a form of reproduction in which offspring are produced without the involvement of a male parent.
During parthenogenesis, the egg undergoes a series of developmental stages and matures into an offspring without the need for genetic material from a male. This can occur in various animals, such as certain reptiles, insects, and even some fish species. It is relatively rare in mammals but has been observed in certain invertebrates.
There are two main types of parthenogenesis: haplodiploidy and automixis. Haplodiploidy is seen in insects like ants and bees, where unfertilized eggs develop into males (haploid individuals), while fertilized eggs become females (diploid individuals). Automixis, on the other hand, involves the fusion of two egg cells, leading to the development of diploid offspring.
Parthenogenesis is considered an advantageous reproductive strategy in certain conditions, such as when mates are scarce or when resources are limited. It allows for rapid population growth and colonization, as only a single individual is needed to initiate a new generation.
Overall, parthenogenesis is an intriguing biological phenomenon that showcases the diversity and complexity of reproductive strategies in the animal kingdom.
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A form of non-sexual reproduction, or agamogenesis, in which the female reproduces its kind without fecundation by the male.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Reproduction of plants or animals without the immediate stimulus of the male principle, or from a single ovum.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of PARTHENOGENESIS
The word "parthenogenesis" has its roots in Greek. It is derived from two Greek words: "parthenos", meaning "virgin", and "genesis", meaning "birth" or "creation". Therefore, "parthenogenesis" literally means "virgin birth" or "virgin creation". The term was coined in the 19th century to describe a form of reproduction in which an egg develops into an organism without fertilization by sperm.
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