Question 50

Asexual reproduction is best illustrated by a growing bacteria cell dividing to produce two genetically identical daughter cells.

Asexual reproduction is characterized by the production of offspring from a single parent organism without the involvement of gametes. The process of a bacteria cell dividing to form two genetically identical daughter cells is a classic example of asexual reproduction.

A) A sperm cell from a male frog fuses with an egg cell from a female frog to produce a new egg.

This option describes sexual reproduction, as it involves the fusion of male and female gametes (sperm and egg cells) to create offspring. A key characteristic of asexual reproduction is the absence of gamete fusion, making this option incorrect in the context of asexual reproduction.

B) A growing bacteria cell divides, producing two genetically identical daughter cells.

This option accurately describes asexual reproduction. In this process, a single bacteria cell undergoes binary fission, resulting in two identical cells that are clones of the original. This exemplifies asexual reproduction perfectly, as there is no genetic variation introduced from another organism.

C) An insect transfers pollen between the flowers of a plant, resulting in fertilization.

This choice represents sexual reproduction, as it involves the transfer of pollen (male gametes) to fertilize ovules (female gametes) in flowers. The involvement of two distinct gametes to create new life distinguishes this process from asexual reproduction.

D) A paramecium takes up water from its surroundings, resulting in an increase in size.

While this statement describes a biological process, it does not illustrate asexual reproduction. The uptake of water and subsequent growth does not result in the production of offspring but rather refers to the maintenance and growth of an individual organism. Thus, this option does not meet the criteria for asexual reproduction.

Conclusion

Option B is the definitive example of asexual reproduction, as it illustrates how a single organism can reproduce independently to create genetically identical offspring. In contrast, Options A, C, and D either involve sexual reproduction or fail to demonstrate reproductive processes at all, thereby confirming that they do not satisfy the criteria for asexual reproduction.