# Explain why organisms produced by asexual reproduction are genetically identical to their parent, whilst organisms produced by sexual reproduction are not.

> AQA GCSE Biology (8461) — 4.6.1 Reproduction · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Asexual reproduction involves only one parent / no fusion of gametes
2. Asexual reproduction involves mitosis, which produces genetically identical cells
3. Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of male and female gametes (fertilisation), combining genetic material from two parents
4. Gametes are produced by meiosis, which creates non-identical cells / introduces genetic variation

## Key terms

- [asexual reproduction](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/asexual-reproduction)
- [sexual reproduction](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/sexual-reproduction)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA GCSE Biology (8461)](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/explain-why-organisms-produced-by-asexual-2507dff6) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.