difference between parthenocarpy and parthenogenesis: Types & Examples

Definition Of Parthenocarpy And Parthenogenesis

Parthenocarpy refers to the naturally or artificially induced development of fruits that are seedless because they have not undergone fertilisation. The processes take place in various plant species, such as bananas and cucumbers, whereby the fruit develops without fertilisation of the ovules. Parthenogenesis is parthenogenic asexual reproduction whereby an egg develops into an individual without being fertilised by a sperm.

This phenomenon occurs in several plants, invertebrates—aphids and bees—and a few vertebrates, like some reptiles and fish. An in-depth understanding of the concepts of parthenocarpy and parthenogenesis is essential in biology, for they explain alternative reproductive strategies that yield increased genetic diversity and adaptations. These processes have far-reaching applications in agriculture, horticulture, and research into genetic inheritance, providing possibilities for better crop yields and elucidation of mechanisms of reproduction in various species.

Key Differences Between Parthenocarpy And Parthenogenesis

Parthenocarpy

Parthenocarpy is the term designating the growth of fruits without fertilisation of their ova, resulting in seedless fruits.

Types Of Parthenocarpy

There are two major divisions for parthenocarpy: natural parthenocarpy, where the phenomenon takes place naturally, and induced parthenocarpy, which is artificially provoked by humans or environmental elements.

Natural Parthenocarpy

This occurs without the interference of a human entity and is prevalent in some species of plants, such as bananas.

Induced Parthenocarpy

This could be achieved with the help of hormones in plants or by inducing genetic changes in a plant to allow for the development of seedless fruits.

Examples Of Parthenocarpy In Plants

Fruits: Bananas, Seedless Watermelons, Pineapples. These are everyday instances where parthenocarpy is observed to give way to seedless types. These seedless forms are often desired in the market.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Parthenocarpy

Agricultural Benefits

Conditions or the traits in plants lead to higher market value of the fruit, obviate cross-pollination, and ensure fruiting throughout the year.

Limitations

The potential demerits are the constant use of hormones in induced parthenocarpy and the reduction in genetic diversity.

Parthenogenesis

A method of reproduction whereby an egg develops into an organism without fertilisation. Hence, this form of reproduction results in offspring that are genetically identical to the mother.

Types Of Parthenogenesis

There are two primary forms of parthenogenesis: automictic and apomictic parthenogenesis.

Automictic Parthenogenesis

A form of parthenogenesis whereby meiosis occurs; haploid gametes fuse to give diploid offspring; thus, some variation is added by this process.

Apomictic Parthenogenesis

A process in which mitosis occurs without meiosis. The resultant offspring becomes an exact genetic clone of their mother.

Examples Of Parthenogenesis In Animals

Aphids, Rotifers: Aphids are known to have parthenogenesis, particularly in conducive environments, thus yielding successive generations composed only of females with identical features and structures. Rotifers also reproduce using parthenogenesis; this is seen mostly during favourable conditions.

Komodo Dragons, Some Fish, Reptiles: Parthenogenesis in Komodo dragons occurs in the absence of males. Some fish and reptiles are also known to have this method of reproduction.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Parthenogenesis

Evolutionary Benefits

Offers vast population increase and therefore able to colonise new areas. It ensures that genes that are of good heredity are passed successfully.

Limitations

Lower genetic diversity makes the population more susceptible to diseases and environmental changes. Moreover, it limits the potential for adaptability and evolution.

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