Question

Is vegetative reproduction, a type of asexual reproduction? Why is it so? Is the term clone applicable to the offspring formed by vegetative reproduction?

Answer 1

1: Introduction to vegetative reproduction
It is a type of asexual reproduction taking place in plants in which a progeny plant is formed from a vegetative structure, commonly referred to as vegetative propagule. Examples of vegetative propagules include runner, sucker, rhizome, tuber, bulb, offset etc.

2: Vegetative reproduction as a type of asexual reproduction Vegetative reproduction is considered as a type of asexual reproduction because of the following:
● Involvement of one parent
● No fusion of gametes
● Offsprings are identical to their parent plant

3: Clones
Individuals which are identical to each other morphologically as well as genetically are referred to as clones. Since, progeny plants arising by vegetative reproduction are identical to their parent plants, hence, they can be designated as clones.