Which mode of reproduction results in offspring that are genetically identical to the parent?

• A. Asexual reproduction
• B. Sexual reproduction
• C. Cloning
• D. Budding

Answer: (A)

In this case, the key idea is how genetic material is passed to offspring. Asexual reproduction uses a single parent to produce offspring through mitosis, so the offspring receive an identical copy of the parent’s genome. Since there’s no fusion of gametes and no genetic mixing, the offspring are essentially genetic clones of the parent, aside from rare mutations that can occur. This is why many organisms that reproduce asexually—such as certain plants that propagate via runners or tubers, and simple organisms that split or bud—produce genetically identical offspring. In contrast, sexual reproduction combines genes from two parents, leading to offspring with new, mixed genetic combinations. Cloning can also produce exact copies, but it’s typically an artificial process rather than a natural mode of reproduction.