NCERT Solutions For Class 12 Biology Reproduction in Organisms . 



Reproduction in organisms


# Summary

  • Reproduction enables a species to live generation after generation
  • Reproduction can be asexual or sexual
  • Asexual reproduction does not involve the fusion of gametes and produces identical offspring
  • Asexual reproduction is common in organisms with simple organization like fungi, algae, and some invertebrate animals
  • Asexual structures such as zoospores and conidia are common in algae and fungi, while budding and gemmule formation are common in animals
  • Prokaryotes and unicellular organisms reproduce asexually by cell division or binary fission
  • Vegetative propagation is a type of asexual reproduction in which new offspring arise from structures like runners, rhizomes, and tubers
  • Sexual reproduction involves the formation and fusion of gametes, which is a complex and slower process than asexual reproduction
  • Pre-fertilization events in sexual reproduction include gametogenesis and gamete transfer, while post-fertilization events include the formation of zygote and embryogenesis
  • Organisms may be bisexual or unisexual, and sexuality in plants is varied
  • Gametes are haploid and usually produced by meiotic division
  • Transfer of male gametes is essential in sexual reproduction and may occur through pollination in angiosperms
  • Syngamy, or fertilization, occurs between male and female gametes and leads to the formation of a zygote
  • Embryogenesis is the process of developing an embryo from a zygote
  • Animals may be oviparous or viviparous, and embryonal protection and care are better in viviparous organisms
  • In flowering plants, after fertilization, the ovary develops into fruit and the ovules mature into seeds
  • The progenitor of the next generation is the embryo inside the mature seed.


Reproduction is a fundamental aspect of life, allowing a species to continue to exist and thrive from generation to generation. There are two broad categories of reproduction: asexual and sexual. Asexual reproduction does not involve the fusion of gametes and is common in organisms with simple organization such as fungi, algae, and some invertebrate animals. The offspring produced by asexual reproduction are identical to the parent and are referred to as clones. Common asexual methods seen in animals include budding and gemmule formation, while unicellular organisms and prokaryotes reproduce asexually by cell division or binary fission.

In several aquatic and terrestrial species of angiosperms, structures such as runners, rhizomes, suckers, tubers, and offsets are capable of giving rise to new offspring. This method of asexual reproduction is known as vegetative propagation. In contrast, sexual reproduction involves the formation and fusion of gametes. It is a more complex and slower process compared to asexual reproduction, but it allows for genetic diversity and adaptation to changing environments.

Most higher animals reproduce almost entirely by sexual means, with events of sexual reproduction categorized into pre-fertilization, fertilization, and post-fertilization events. Pre-fertilization events include gametogenesis and gamete transfer, while post-fertilization events include the formation of the zygote and embryogenesis. Organisms may be bisexual or unisexual, and sexuality in plants is varied, particularly in angiosperms, due to the production of diverse types of flowers.

Gametes are haploid in nature and usually a direct product of meiotic division except in haploid organisms where gametes are formed by mitosis. In sexual reproduction, transfer of male gametes is an essential event, which may occur externally or internally. Pollination is a special process that ensures transfer of pollen grains in angiosperms. Syngamy (fertilization) occurs between the male and female gametes and may occur either externally or internally. Syngamy leads to the formation of a specialized cell called the zygote.

The process of development of the embryo from the zygote is called embryogenesis. In animals, the zygote starts developing soon after its formation, and animals may be either oviparous or viviparous. Embryonal protection and care are better in viviparous organisms. In flowering plants, after fertilization, the ovary develops into fruit, and ovules mature into seeds. Inside the mature seed is the progenitor of the next generation, the embryo.

In conclusion, reproduction is essential for the survival and continuation of species. Asexual and sexual reproduction are the two broad categories of reproduction. Asexual reproduction produces clones of the parent organism, while sexual reproduction results in genetic diversity and adaptation to changing environments. The events of sexual reproduction include pre-fertilization, fertilization, and post-fertilization events, with the zygote developing into the embryo through the process of embryogenesis. The offspring produced through reproduction are the progenitors of the next generation, ensuring the continued existence of the species.

# Mind Map
  •  Reproduction 
=>Asexual Reproduction 
=>Asexual Reproduction in Animals  
=>Asexual Reproduction in Plants
  • Sexual Reproduction in Higher Organisms
=>Sexual Reproduction
=>Sexual Reproduction in Plants 
=>Sexual Reproduction in Animals
=>Events in Sexual Reproduction

# NCERT SOLUTIONS (QUESTION AND ANSWERS)


Q 1 . Why is reproduction essential for organisms?
Ans . Reproduction is vital for organisms as it allows them to perpetuate their species from one generation to another. Without reproduction, species would eventually die out, leading to their extinction. Reproduction ensures the continuation of the genetic material and characteristics of a species, and allows for the development of new individuals that can adapt and evolve to their changing environment. In this way, reproduction plays a crucial role in the survival and success of all living organisms.


Q 2 . Which is a better mode of reproduction: sexual or asexual? Why?
Ans . Both sexual and asexual reproduction have their advantages and disadvantages, and which mode of reproduction is better depends on the specific circumstances of each organism. Asexual reproduction is a simpler and faster process that allows for rapid reproduction and colonization of new habitats, but it also results in genetically identical offspring that may be less adaptable to changing environments. Sexual reproduction, on the other hand, produces genetically diverse offspring that are better equipped to adapt and evolve, but it is a more complex and slower process that requires the development of specialized reproductive organs and mechanisms. In general, sexual reproduction is considered to be a better mode of reproduction for long-term survival and success, as it increases genetic diversity and variability, which are essential for the adaptation and evolution of organisms over time.

ALTER ==>
  • Asexual reproduction produces clones, while sexual reproduction generates genetically diverse offspring.
  • Asexual reproduction is simpler, quicker, and more efficient than sexual reproduction.
  • However, sexual reproduction offers benefits like genetic variation, adaptability, and evolution that asexual reproduction lacks.
  • Genetic diversity allows for novel combinations of traits that can enhance survival and resistance to stress and disease.
  • Sexual reproduction also enables the repair and removal of harmful mutations through recombination and natural selection.
  • Furthermore, sexual reproduction can promote social behavior and communication among individuals through courtship and mating.
  • Overall, sexual reproduction is generally more advantageous for organisms in varying and unpredictable environments, while asexual reproduction may be useful in stable and favorable condition

Q 3 . Why is the offspring formed by asexual reproduction referred to as clone?
Ans. Offspring formed by asexual reproduction are referred to as clones because they are genetically identical to their parent or the single individual that gave rise to them. Asexual reproduction does not involve the fusion of gametes or the mixing of genetic material from two different individuals. Instead, a single parent organism reproduces by mitotic division, which produces genetically identical copies of the original cell. Therefore, the offspring that are formed in this way have the same DNA sequence as the parent and are essentially genetic copies or "clones" of each other. This is why the term "clone" is used to describe the offspring formed by asexual reproduction.


Q 4 . Offspring formed due to sexual reproduction have better chances of survival. Why? Is this statement always true?
Ans . Offspring formed due to sexual reproduction have better chances of survival because they have greater genetic diversity compared to offspring formed by asexual reproduction. Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of gametes, which are produced through meiosis and contain a unique combination of genetic material from each parent. This results in offspring that have different genetic traits, which can help them to adapt better to changing environmental conditions, resist diseases and parasites, and increase their chances of survival.

However, this statement is not always true, as the survival of offspring depends on various factors such as the environment, genetic variability, and the parental care provided. Asexual reproduction can also be advantageous in certain conditions where resources are limited, and the organism needs to reproduce quickly to ensure the survival of its species. Additionally, some organisms can switch between asexual and sexual reproduction depending on the environment, and some asexual organisms can also produce offspring with genetic variability through mutation. Therefore, while sexual reproduction generally increases the chances of survival, it is not always the case and depends on various factors.


Q 5 . How does the progeny formed from asexual reproduction differ from those formed by sexual reproduction?
Ans . The progeny formed from asexual reproduction and sexual reproduction differ in several ways, such as:

>Asexual Reproduction:
  • Progeny are genetically identical to the parent and to each other.
  • There is no fusion of gametes involved in the process.
  • It occurs mainly in single-celled or simple multicellular organisms like bacteria, protists, and some animals and plants with relatively simple structures.
  • It is a faster process and requires less energy and resources than sexual reproduction.
  • There is no genetic diversity, which can limit the adaptation of the offspring to changing environmental conditions.
>Sexual Reproduction:
  • Progeny are genetically unique and have a combination of traits from both parents.
  • It involves the fusion of gametes produced by meiosis in the male and female reproductive organs.
  • It occurs in most animals, plants, and some fungi and protists.
  • It is a slower process and requires more energy and resources than asexual reproduction.
  • There is genetic diversity, which allows the offspring to adapt better to changing environmental conditions.
Overall, the main difference between the progeny formed from asexual and sexual reproduction is the genetic diversity and uniqueness of the offspring.


Q 6 . Distinguish between asexual and sexual reproduction. Why is vegetative reproduction also considered as a type of asexual reproduction?
Ans . Asexual reproduction is a type of reproduction that does not involve the fusion of gametes. The offspring produced by asexual reproduction are genetically identical to the parent and are referred to as clones. Some common methods of asexual reproduction include binary fission, budding, fragmentation, and vegetative propagation. Asexual reproduction is common in simple organisms like fungi, algae, and some invertebrate animals.

On the other hand, sexual reproduction involves the fusion of gametes from two parents, resulting in genetically diverse offspring. Sexual reproduction is more complex and slower compared to asexual reproduction, but it leads to the production of genetically diverse offspring, which can adapt to changing environments.

Vegetative reproduction is also considered a type of asexual reproduction because it involves the production of new offspring from vegetative parts like leaves, stems, or roots. In vegetative propagation, a new plant grows from the vegetative part of the parent plant, which is genetically identical to the parent. Therefore, it is also considered a form of asexual reproduction.


Q 7 . What is vegetative propagation? Give two suitable examples
Ans . Vegetative propagation is a type of asexual reproduction in which new individuals are formed from vegetative parts of the parent plant, such as stems, leaves, and roots. This process does not involve the fusion of gametes.

Two suitable examples of vegetative propagation are:
  • Runners: In some plants, such as strawberry, the stems grow horizontally on the ground, producing small plantlets at the nodes. These plantlets eventually take root and grow into new plants, which are genetically identical to the parent plant.
  • Bulbs: In some plants, such as onion and garlic, the underground stem becomes swollen and fleshy, forming a bulb. The bulb has small buds, called cloves, which can grow into new plants when planted in soil. The new plants are genetically identical to the parent plant.

Q 8 . Define 
(a) Juvenile phase, 
(b) Reproductive phase, 
(c) Senescent phase.
Ans . (a) Juvenile phase: The period in the life cycle of an organism during which it is not yet sexually mature and cannot reproduce is called the juvenile phase. During this phase, an organism undergoes a series of developmental changes, such as growth and development of various organs and tissues, and preparation for the reproductive phase.

(b) Reproductive phase: The period in the life cycle of an organism during which it is sexually mature and capable of reproducing is called the reproductive phase. During this phase, an organism can produce gametes (in the case of sexually reproducing organisms) or offspring (in the case of asexual reproducing organisms) to perpetuate its species.

(c) Senescent phase: The period in the life cycle of an organism when it begins to age and deteriorate in function is called the senescent phase. During this phase, an organism undergoes a gradual decline in its physical and physiological functions, and ultimately, it leads to death. This phase is characteristic of all living organisms and varies in duration and intensity among different species.


Q 9 . Higher organisms have resorted to sexual reproduction in spite of its complexity. Why?
Ans . Higher organisms have resorted to sexual reproduction for several reasons, such as:

  • Genetic Variation: Sexual reproduction leads to genetic diversity, which is essential for the survival of a species. The offspring produced by sexual reproduction inherit traits from both parents, resulting in new combinations of genes and genetic variations.
  • Adaptation to the environment: Genetic variation enables the offspring to adapt to the environment better. They may have a better chance of survival in changing environments or when facing new challenges.
  • Elimination of harmful mutations: Sexual reproduction may help to eliminate harmful mutations. In sexual reproduction, the process of meiosis and fertilization may help to remove harmful mutations by creating new combinations of genes.
  • Evolutionary advantages: Sexual reproduction may provide evolutionary advantages by allowing the species to evolve rapidly and adapt to new environments. The genetic diversity produced by sexual reproduction helps in the survival of the fittest and increases the chances of survival and reproductive success.

Therefore, sexual reproduction is considered to be an essential and successful strategy for higher organisms to ensure the survival of their species.


Q 10 . Explain why meiosis and gametogenesis are always interlinked?
Ans . Meiosis and gametogenesis are interlinked because meiosis is the process of cell division that produces gametes. During meiosis, the diploid parent cell undergoes two rounds of division resulting in four haploid daughter cells, each with half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell. These haploid daughter cells are the gametes.

Gametogenesis refers to the process of gamete formation, which occurs during meiosis. In males, gametogenesis is called spermatogenesis, and it results in the formation of four sperm cells from a diploid parent cell. In females, gametogenesis is called oogenesis, and it results in the formation of one egg cell and three polar bodies from a diploid parent cell.

Therefore, meiosis and gametogenesis are interlinked because meiosis is the process that produces the haploid cells required for gamete formation. Without meiosis, gametogenesis cannot occur, and without gametogenesis, sexual reproduction cannot occur.


Q 11 . Identify each part in a flowering plant and write whether it is haploid (n) or diploid (2n). 
(a) Ovary ——————————— 
(b) Anther ——————————— 
(c) Egg ———————————
(d) Pollen ——————————— 
(e) Male gamete ——————————— 
(f) Zygote ———————————
Ans . 

(a) Ovary - diploid (2n)
(b) Anther - diploid (2n)
(c) Egg - haploid (n)
(d) Pollen - haploid (n)
(e) Male gamete - haploid (n)
(f) Zygote - diploid (2n)


Q 12 . Define external fertilisation. Mention its disadvantages.
Ans . External fertilization is a mode of fertilization in which the fusion of gametes (sperm and egg) occurs outside the body of the organism, usually in aquatic environments. In external fertilization, the male and female gametes are released into the surrounding environment, where they come together to form a zygote. External fertilization is common in many aquatic organisms, such as fish, frogs, and some invertebrates.

Disadvantages of external fertilization are:
  1. High mortality rate: In external fertilization, a large number of gametes are released into the environment, but only a small number of them are able to fertilize and form offspring. Many gametes die due to various environmental factors like predators, temperature, or pH changes, leading to high mortality rates.
  2. Lack of parental care: In external fertilization, after fertilization, the offspring are left on their own without any parental care. This makes them more vulnerable to predators, diseases, and other environmental factors, which can further decrease their survival rate.
  3. Competition: In external fertilization, a large number of gametes are released, and as a result, there is intense competition for fertilization. The strongest sperm often outcompetes others and fertilizes the egg, leading to reduced genetic diversity in the offspring.

Q 13 . Differentiate between a zoospore and a zygote.
Ans . Zoospore and zygote are two types of reproductive cells found in different organisms. Here are the differences between them:
  • Definition: A zoospore is a motile, asexual spore that can swim through water, whereas a zygote is a diploid cell formed by the fusion of two haploid gametes during sexual reproduction.
  • Formation: Zoospores are formed by asexual reproduction, whereas zygotes are formed by sexual reproduction.
  • Chromosome number: Zoospores are haploid cells with a single set of chromosomes, whereas zygotes are diploid cells with two sets of chromosomes.
  • Function: Zoospores are produced to help organisms colonize new areas or to survive harsh conditions, whereas zygotes are formed for the continuation of the species.
  • Genetic variation: Zoospores do not contribute to genetic variation in the species as they are clones of the parent, while zygotes contribute to genetic variation as they are formed by the fusion of two different gametes.
  • Size: Zoospores are usually smaller than zygotes.
In summary, zoospores and zygotes differ in their formation, chromosome number, function, genetic variation, and size.


Q 14 . Differentiate between gametogenesis from embryogenesis
Ans . Gametogenesis and embryogenesis are two processes involved in the formation of new individuals, but they differ in several ways:
  • Definition: Gametogenesis is the process of formation of gametes (reproductive cells), whereas embryogenesis is the process of development of a fertilized egg into a mature embryo.
  • Location: Gametogenesis occurs in the gonads (ovaries and testes) of the organisms, while embryogenesis takes place within the female reproductive system in most animals.
  • Formation of cells: During gametogenesis, diploid cells undergo meiosis to form haploid gametes. In embryogenesis, a fertilized egg divides repeatedly by mitosis to form an embryo.
  • Role of cells: Gametes have a specific function in sexual reproduction, which is to fuse with the opposite gamete to form a zygote. In embryogenesis, the cells formed during development have specific functions that contribute to the formation of tissues and organs in the growing embryo.
  • Types: Gametogenesis occurs in both sexes of sexually reproducing organisms, while embryogenesis occurs only in females.
Overall, gametogenesis is a part of the process of sexual reproduction, while embryogenesis is the process of embryonic development of a fertilized egg.


Q 15 . Describe the post-fertilisation changes in a flower.
Ans . After fertilization, the fertilized ovules of the flower develop into seeds, and the ovary wall thickens and matures into a fruit. The process of seed development and fruit formation is known as post-fertilization changes in a flower. The post-fertilization changes can be divided into three main phases:
  1. The phase of embryogenesis: The zygote undergoes cell division and forms an embryo. The embryo develops into the young seedling inside the seed.
  2. The phase of endosperm development: The polar nuclei in the embryo sac fuse with one of the sperm cells to form a triploid cell called endosperm. The endosperm provides nourishment to the developing embryo and is also consumed by humans as food in some cases.
  3. The phase of fruit formation: The ovary wall thickens and matures into a fruit, which protects the developing seeds and aids in their dispersal.
During post-fertilization changes, the flower may also undergo other modifications such as the shedding of petals and modification of the receptacle to form a fruiting structure.


Q 16 . What is a bisexual flower? Collect five bisexual flowers from your neighbourhood and with the help of your teacher find out their common and scientific names.
Ans . A bisexual flower is a flower that contains both male and female reproductive structures, namely stamens and pistil, in the same flower. Here are five examples of bisexual flowers along with their common and scientific names:
  • Rose - Rosa spp.
  • Hibiscus - Hibiscus spp.
  • Sunflower - Helianthus annuus
  • Dandelion - Taraxacum officinale
  • Marigold - Tagetes spp.
Note: The specific scientific names may vary based on the particular species and cultivar of the flower found in the locality. 


Q 17 . Examine a few flowers of any cucurbit plant and try to identify the staminate and pistillate flowers. Do you know any other plant that bears unisexual flowers?
Ans . Cucurbit plants like pumpkin, cucumber, and watermelon have separate male (staminate) and female (pistillate) flowers. Staminate flowers have long stalks and bear only stamens while pistillate flowers have a small swelling beneath the flower and bear only pistils.

Other plants that bear unisexual flowers include maize, date palm, papaya, and coconut.


Q 18 . Why are offspring of oviparous animals at a greater risk as compared to offspring of viviparous animals?
Ans . Offspring of oviparous animals, which hatch from eggs laid outside the mother's body, are at a greater risk compared to offspring of viviparous animals, which are born alive. This is because:
  1. Oviparous animals lay their eggs in the environment, which makes them vulnerable to predators, harsh weather conditions, and other environmental factors. In contrast, viviparous animals carry their offspring inside their bodies, providing protection from external threats.
  2. The eggs of oviparous animals lack the protective and nutritional support provided by the mother's body, which increases the chances of the offspring dying due to lack of nourishment or physical damage.
  3. The hatching process of oviparous animals requires the offspring to break through the protective shell of the egg, which can be a strenuous and dangerous process. In contrast, viviparous animals give birth to their offspring, which have already developed to a point where they are better equipped to handle the outside environment.
Some examples of oviparous animals are reptiles, birds, and most fish, while examples of viviparous animals include mammals such as humans, dogs, and cows.

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# SOME OTHER CONTENT  


 Introduction

Reproduction is a fundamental process that enables the continuation of life on Earth. Organisms have evolved different reproductive strategies that suit their needs and lifestyles. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of reproduction in organisms, including the different modes of reproduction, the reproductive systems in plants and animals, and the hormonal regulation of reproductive processes.

Modes of Reproduction

There are two main modes of reproduction: sexual and asexual. Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of gametes (sperm and egg cells) from two parents, resulting in offspring that inherit traits from both parents. Asexual reproduction, on the other hand, does not involve the fusion of gametes and results in offspring that are genetically identical to the parent.

Asexual Reproduction

Asexual reproduction is common in many single-celled and multicellular organisms. It is a quick and efficient way to produce offspring, especially in favorable environmental conditions. There are several types of asexual reproduction, including binary fission, budding, fragmentation, and vegetative propagation.

Binary fission is a type of asexual reproduction in which a single cell divides into two identical daughter cells. This process is common in bacteria and protists. Budding is a type of asexual reproduction in which a new individual develops as an outgrowth or bud from the parent organism. This process is common in yeasts, hydra, and corals. Fragmentation is a type of asexual reproduction in which an organism breaks into two or more fragments, each of which can regenerate into a new individual. This process is common in flatworms and starfish. Vegetative propagation is a type of asexual reproduction in plants, where new individuals develop from vegetative parts like stems, leaves, or roots.

Sexual Reproduction

Sexual reproduction is common in most multicellular organisms, including plants and animals. It involves the fusion of gametes from two parents, resulting in offspring that inherit traits from both parents. Sexual reproduction provides genetic diversity, which is essential for the adaptation and evolution of species.

Reproductive Systems in Plants

In plants, the reproductive system consists of flowers, which are specialized structures that produce male and female gametes. The male gametes are produced in the anthers of the flower, while the female gametes are produced in the ovules. Pollination is the process by which pollen (containing male gametes) is transferred from the anthers to the stigma (the receptive part of the female reproductive system).

Fertilization occurs when a sperm cell from the pollen fuses with the egg cell in the ovule, forming a zygote. The zygote develops into an embryo, which is protected by the seed coat and develops into a seed. The seed contains the embryo, a supply of nutrients, and a protective seed coat. When conditions are favorable, the seed germinates, and a new plant grows.

Reproductive Systems in Animals

In animals, the reproductive system consists of organs and tissues that produce and transport gametes. In males, the testes produce sperm cells, which are transported through the vas deferens and mixed with other fluids to form semen. In females, the ovaries produce egg cells, which are transported through the fallopian tubes to the uterus.

Fertilization occurs when a sperm cell fuses with an egg cell, forming a zygote. The zygote develops into an embryo, which implants in the lining of the uterus and develops into a fetus. During pregnancy, the fetus receives nutrients and oxygen from the mother through the placenta. After birth, the mother produces milk to nourish the newborn.

Hormonal Regulation of Reproductive Processes

Reproductive processes in organisms are regulated by hormones, which are chemical messengers produced by glands in the endocrine system. In females, the hormone

In females, the hormone estrogen plays a critical role in the development of the reproductive system, including the growth and maturation of the ovaries, uterus, and breasts. Estrogen levels fluctuate during the menstrual cycle, leading to ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovary.

In males, the hormone testosterone is responsible for the development and maintenance of the male reproductive system, including the testes, penis, and prostate gland. Testosterone levels also play a role in sperm production and sexual function.

Conclusion

Reproduction is a complex and essential process that allows organisms to continue their species. Different organisms have evolved various modes of reproduction, including asexual and sexual reproduction. Reproductive systems in plants and animals have specialized structures that produce and transport gametes, leading to fertilization and the development of offspring. Hormones play a crucial role in regulating reproductive processes, and imbalances can lead to infertility and other reproductive disorders.