TED-Ed: How does this all-female species reproduce? | Susan Freitas and Darren Parker

The video explores the phenomenon of parthenogenesis, where an embryo develops from an unfertilized egg, as seen in the birth of Ispera, a smooth hound shark. Parthenogenesis is more common than previously thought, occurring in over 80 vertebrate species. It offers evolutionary benefits by allowing reproduction without a mate, but it also poses risks like genetic mutations. Muller's ratchet theory suggests that parthenogenetic lineages may face extinction due to accumulated mutations. However, some species, like New Mexico whiptail lizards and deloid rotifers, have mechanisms to maintain genetic diversity and avoid mutational meltdown.

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