The document outlines the differences between sexual and asexual reproduction, defining key terms such as 'variation' and 'clone'. It explains that sexual reproduction involves genetic variation from two parents, while asexual reproduction creates genetically identical clones from a single organism. The document also describes methods of cloning plants and discusses the advantages and disadvantages of both reproduction types.

1. 14/01/2013
Objectives: Reproduction
Be able to…
• Explain the difference between sexual
reproduction and asexual reproduction
• Define the terms ‘variation’ and ‘clone’
• Recall that plants can be cloned by taking a cutting

2. Sexual reproduction recap…
• Genes from two parents are
combined to produce an
organism with a unique genetic
code
• Sexual reproduction produces variation within a
species
• Most animals and many plants reproduce sexually

3. Asexual reproduction
• A single organism makes a copy of
itself with exactly the same genetic
code – the new organism is a clone
of the original
• There is no fusion of gametes, and
no variation
• Enables an organism to quickly populate a new habitat
• Makes sure successful characteristics are passed on
• Organisms that reproduce asexually include:
Spider plants, strawberries, potatoes
Bacteria and yeast
Some insects such as aphids

4. Sexual reproduction:
Asexual reproduction:

5. Advantages and disadvantages
Sexual reproduction Asexual reproduction
 Genetic variation – offspring  Offspring are genetically
can adapt and evolve (increased identical – good when the parent
chances of survival) is well adapted
 Slower than asexual (more  Quick – bacteria can produce
stages involved) offspring in 20 mins
 Energy and time is used up  All faulty genetic material is
competing for a mate passed on

6. Cuttings
• How it’s done:
• Why it’s done:
How it’s done:
A branch is cut off the parent plant
The leaves are cut off and the stem is planted in compost
The cutting is kept moist and warm and roots develop in a few weeks
Why it’s done:
Simple way to produce clones of plants cheaply

7. Tissue culture
• How it’s done:
1. Cells taken from parent
plant and transferred to a
petri dish.
2. Plant hormones are added
and the cells divide.
3. More hormones stimulate
root and stem growth.
4. The plantlets are transferring into potting trays where they develop
into plants.
• Why it’s done:
Clones can be mass produced quickly

8. True or false?
Work in pairs…
1. There is only one type of reproduction
2. Sexual reproduction produces variety
3. Clones are produced from sexual reproduction
4. Clones are genetically identical
5. Plants can reproduce by sexually and asexually
6. Gamete are involved in asexual reproduction
7. Sperm and egg cells are gametes