Itsemimikry

Itsemimikry is a Finnish term that translates to "self-mimicry" or "autohybridization" in English. It refers to a biological phenomenon where an organism produces offspring that are genetically identical to itself, essentially creating a clone. This is distinct from asexual reproduction methods like budding or fission, as itsemimikry typically involves the fusion of gametes (reproductive cells), similar to sexual reproduction.

The process often occurs in plants, particularly those that are polyploid, meaning they have more than two sets of chromosomes. In these cases, during meiosis (the cell division that produces gametes), chromosomes may fail to separate properly, leading to gametes with a full complement of chromosomes. When two such gametes fuse, the resulting zygote is genetically identical to the parent plant. Some species of dandelions and hawkweeds are known to exhibit this form of reproduction.

Itsemimikry can be considered a form of asexual reproduction that utilizes sexual reproductive structures. It allows for rapid propagation of well-adapted genotypes in stable environments. However, it also reduces genetic diversity within a population, which can be a disadvantage in changing conditions. While primarily observed in plants, theoretical possibilities for similar mechanisms exist in other organisms, though it is less commonly documented. The study of itsemimikry helps understand the diverse strategies organisms employ for reproduction and the evolution of genetic variation.