Learn Intext Exercise 8.2 with Free Lessons & Tips

In binary fission, a single cell divides into two equal halves. Amoeba and

Bacteria divide by binary fission.

Binary fission in Amoeba

In multiple fission, a single cell divides into many daughter cells simultaneously. Amoeba and Plasmodium divide by multiple fission.

Multiple fission in Plasmodium

There are many advantages, if an organism reproduces through spores.

Advantages of spore formation:

• Large numbers of spores are produced in one sporangium.

• Spores are distributed easily by air to far-off places to avoid competition at one place.

• Spores are covered by thick walls to prevent dehydration under unfavourable conditions.

Simple organisms such as Hydra and Planaria are capable of producing new individuals through the process of regeneration. The process of regeneration involves the formation of new organisms from its body parts. Simple organisms can utilize this method of reproduction as their entire body is made of similar kind of cells in which any part of their body can be formed by growth and development.

However, complex organisms have organ-system level of organization. All the organ systems of their body work together as an interconnected unit. They can regenerate their lost body parts such as skin, muscles, blood, etc. However, they cannot give rise to new individuals through regeneration.

Vegetative propagation is the ability of the plants to reproduce by producing new plants from the vegetative plant parts such as leaf, stem, or roots under appropriate conditions. This method is the only means of reproduction for some seedless plant varieties such as banana, rose, and jasmine. However, this method of reproduction is also used for agricultural purposes in commercial production of some plants such as sugarcane, grapes, roses, etc.