Question 2: Describe the different methods of asexual reproduction. Give examples

Answer: The various modes of asexual reproduction in plants are as follows: (i)Vegetative propagation: It is the ability of a plant to produce new plants from roots, stems, leaves, and buds. Vegetative propagation is divided into two types.  Natural vegetative propagation: This type of vegetative propagation occurs easily in nature and involves simple vegetative parts. Potato plant sprouting from an eye is a common example.  Artificial vegetative propagation: This type of vegetative propagation is performed manually and generally occurs in laboratory conditions. The formation of a complete plant from a stem cutting of rose is a common example of this method. (ii) Budding:It involves the formation of a new individual from a bulb-like projection called a bud. The bud grows and gets detached from the parent to form a new individual. It is commonly observed in yeast. (iii)Fragmentation:It is a form of asexual reproduction where a new organism is formed from the fragments of the parent body. It is the only mode of asexual reproduction in Spirogyra. (iv)Spore formation:Many non-flowering plants reproduce through spore formation. Spores are tiny cells protected by a thick wall. Fungi such as bread moulds reproduce asexually using this method.