In the animal kingdom, not all mate before reproduction. Are you surprised? The process is called parthenogenesis. You need to go through this article to learn about these incredible animals.
Here are animals that reproduce without mating:
1. Stick insects
Stick insects, also called “walking sticks,” are regarded as the longest insects in the world. They are herbivores that feed on leaves and live in the forest. Stick insects are similar to crickets, mantises, and grasshoppers; they could be green, black, or brown in colour. Other insects feed on their feces.
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Walking sticks are one of the animals that reproduce without mating; this is called “parthenogenesis.” This form of asexual reproduction occurs when unfertilized females produce eggs that turn out to be females. But if a male is involved in egg fertilization, there is a probability of having a male.
2. Tardigrades
Tardigrades, also known as water bears, are microscopic organisms that reproduce sexually and asexually. They feed on algae, invertebrates, and plant cells. Tardigrades are unique for their reproductive styles and resistance.
Parthenogenesis, a process whereby females produce offspring alone without male fertilization, is more common among tardigrades in terrestrial environments. Switching between two reproductive ways enables tardigrades to survive harsh weather or extreme conditions.
3. Blind Snakes
Blind snakes, or scolecophidia, are distinct from every other type of snake because of their reduced eyes, which hinder clear vision. Blind snakes reproduce through parthenogenesis, which allows them to multiply bountifully, creating and adapting to new environments. Most of the time, scolecophidia are mistaken for earthworms because of their likeness.
4. Crocodiles
Crocodiles are the heaviest and largest reptiles. They can also reproduce without mating; embryos develop from unfertilized eggs without the male. Crocodiles are known to have one of the strongest bites; their jaws are so powerful that they exert a total force on prey. A crocodile can grow and replace thousands of teeth in a lifetime.
5. Starfish
Many species of starfish can reproduce asexually before the maturity stage. Scientifically, they are known as “Asteroidea.” Starfish undergo a process called “fission,” whereby they split into two to produce another starfish. The central disc of the starfish breaks into two during this process, and then the arm detaches to give birth to a new organism.