“It is extremely rare for complex organisms to evolve into an all-female species, but it can happen. For some species, the involvement of males in the reproductive process is entirely optional. While the males may exist, they are not essential to reproduction. Lots of animals can reproduce without male involvement, from the smallest insects to the biggest reptiles.
Asexual reproduction comes in many forms too, from basic cell reproduction to complex cloning cycles. ” In fact, one of the most fascinating and popular species, known as Pandinus imperator or the emperor scorpion, can reproduce both sexually and asexually at the same time.
The female comodo can reproduce through parthenogenesis.
Parthenogenesis is a Greek word meaning “virgin creation,” but specifically refers to female asexual reproduction. Females of these species, which include some wasps, crustaceans, and lizards, reproduce only through parthenogenesis and are called obligate parthenogens.
Scientists have learned spontaneous parthenogenesis may be a heritable trait, meaning females that suddenly experience parthenogenesis might be more likely to have daughters that can do the same. Though spontaneous parthenogenesis appears to be rare, it does provide some benefits to the female who can achieve it. In some cases, it can allow females to generate their own mating partners.
