# A lizard loses part of its tail as a defence mechanism against a predator. Over several weeks, the tail grows back. Explain how mitosis allows the lizard's tail to grow back.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610) — 17.2 Mitosis · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Cells in the tail divide by mitosis to produce new cells
2. Mitosis produces two daughter cells that are genetically identical to the parent cell
3. The diploid chromosome number is maintained in the daughter cells
4. The new cells can become specialised to replace the lost tail tissue / repair the damaged tissue

## Key terms

- [mitosis](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/mitosis)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/a-lizard-loses-part-of-its-b4f39ade) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.