Självbefruktning

Självbefruktning, also known as self-fertilization or autogamy, is a reproductive process where an organism produces offspring using its own genetic material. This can occur in various forms across different life kingdoms. In plants, it typically involves the transfer of pollen from the anther to the stigma of the same flower, or to another flower on the same plant. This leads to the production of seeds that are genetically identical or very similar to the parent plant. Some plants have mechanisms to promote self-pollination, such as bisexual flowers where both male and female reproductive organs are present and mature simultaneously.

In some animal species, self-fertilization is also possible. This is more common in hermaphroditic organisms, which possess both male and female reproductive organs. Examples include certain species of snails, earthworms, and flatworms. In these cases, an individual can fertilize itself or exchange genetic material with another individual of the same species through cross-fertilization.

Self-fertilization can have advantages, such as ensuring reproduction even when mates are scarce or allowing for the rapid colonization of new environments. However, it can also lead to a reduction in genetic diversity, which may make populations more vulnerable to diseases or environmental changes over time. Many organisms that are capable of self-fertilization also have mechanisms for outcrossing, or cross-fertilization with unrelated individuals, to maintain genetic variation within their populations.