Summary
Development of an egg without fertilisation, found in some insects, reptiles and fish.
In depth
Examples: aphids, Komodo dragons occasionally, whiptail lizards (all-female species), some sharks and turkeys. Offspring can be clones or have reduced variation. Mechanisms vary (apomixis, automixis).
Offspring may be clones or have limited variation. Some species switch between sexual and asexual. It can occur in captivity when females lack males.
Remember: it is development from an unfertilised egg.
Frequently asked questions
What is Parthenogenesis?
Development of an egg without fertilisation, found in some insects, reptiles and fish.
Which area of biology covers Parthenogenesis, and how advanced is it?
Parthenogenesis is one of the 54 topics in Reproduction & Endocrinology. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Sexual Reproduction, Asexual Reproduction, Reproductive Strategies Across Taxa.
Can you give an example of Parthenogenesis?
Bees' males develop from unfertilised eggs.
What should I learn before Parthenogenesis?
Work through the Beginner topics in Reproduction & Endocrinology first, such as Reproduction, Asexual Reproduction, Sexual Reproduction, then return to Parthenogenesis. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to Parthenogenesis?
The closest topics to Parthenogenesis are Sexual Reproduction, Asexual Reproduction, Reproductive Strategies Across Taxa, Female Reproductive System. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Parthenogenesis?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Parthenogenesis. To practise the whole of Reproduction & Endocrinology, use the Reproduction & Endocrinology quiz.
How is Parthenogenesis different from Sexual Reproduction?
Parthenogenesis: Development of an egg without fertilisation, found in some insects, reptiles and fish. Sexual Reproduction: Two gametes fuse, mixing genetic material to produce varied offspring. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Parthenogenesis step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Sexual Reproduction and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Reproduction & Endocrinology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.