gemación

Gemación is a form of asexual reproduction where a new organism develops from an outgrowth or bud due to cell division at one particular site. This bud grows and eventually detaches from the parent organism to live independently. Gemación is common in some invertebrates like hydra and sponges, and also occurs in some yeasts and bacteria. The offspring produced through gemación is genetically identical to the parent, meaning it is a clone. This method of reproduction allows for rapid population growth under favorable conditions. The bud starts as a small outgrowth, receiving nutrients and genetic material from the parent. As it enlarges, it develops its own specialized structures. Once mature, it separates from the parent, either by a complete detachment or by remaining attached to form a colony. The size and complexity of the bud can vary depending on the species. This process is distinct from binary fission, where the parent organism splits into two equal halves. In gemación, there is a clear parent and a smaller, developing offspring.