Parthenogenesis

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Heterogony)

Parthenogenesis is a type of asexual reproduction in which offspring develop from unfertilized eggs. It is particularly common in arthropods and rotifers, but can also be found in species from other phyla. The term is derived from the Greek words parthenos, meaning "virgin", and genesis, meaning "birth".

Overview[edit | edit source]

Parthenogenesis occurs naturally in many plants, some invertebrate animal species (including nematodes, water fleas, some scorpions, aphids, some mites, some bees, some Phasmida and parasitic wasps) and a few vertebrates (such as some fish, amphibians, reptiles and very rarely birds). This type of reproduction has been induced artificially in a few species including fish and amphibians.

Types of Parthenogenesis[edit | edit source]

There are several types of parthenogenesis, including obligate parthenogenesis, in which the organism can only reproduce asexually, and cyclical parthenogenesis, where organisms alternate between sexual and asexual reproduction. Another type is haplodiploidy, a sex-determination system in which one sex is haploid and the other diploid.

Mechanisms[edit | edit source]

The mechanisms of parthenogenesis include automixis, where the two sets of chromosomes come from the same individual, and apomixis, where the chromosomes are identical to the parent's. In some cases, parthenogenesis can result in offspring that are genetically identical to the parent, a process known as cloning.

Evolutionary Implications[edit | edit source]

Parthenogenesis has important implications for evolution. It allows for rapid population growth and colonization of new areas. However, it also reduces genetic diversity, which can make populations more susceptible to diseases and other threats.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Parthenogenesis Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD