IGCSE Biology glossary
Asexual reproduction
Biology editorial review is supported by the named review panel. Reviewer participation may vary by guide. Checked against Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 (2026–2028); last reviewed August 2026.
Definition
A process resulting in the production of genetically identical offspring from one parent.
What to include in an exam answer
The two paying points are 'one parent' and 'genetically identical' offspring (clones). Students lose marks by saying 'no gametes' as the whole answer without the genetic point, or by confusing identical offspring with 'similar' offspring. Examiners often ask for an advantage (only one parent needed, rapid) and a disadvantage (no variation, so a population is vulnerable to a change in conditions or disease).
Example in context
Explaining a risk of asexual reproduction: 'Because asexual reproduction produces genetically identical offspring from one parent, the whole population can be killed by a single disease as there is no variation.'
Related syllabus topic
Reproduction