Parthenogenesis
- Pronunciation
- /par-THEN-ee-genesis/
- Category
- Reproduction
- Singular
- Parthenogenesis
- Plural
- Parthenogeneses
Definition
A form of asexual reproduction in which females produce offspring from unfertilized eggs.
Etymology
From Greek 'parthen-', meaning 'virgin', and 'genesis', meaning 'beginning'.
Example
Some species of insects, like aphids, reproduce parthenogenetically during periods of rapid population growth.
Synonyms
- Agamogenesis
Related Terms
- Asexual reproduction
- Virgin birth
- Thelytoky
Usage Notes
Parthenogenesis can be either facultative (thelytoky) or obligatory. In some cases, it may involve multiple rounds of parthenogenesis before a male is produced.