Parthenogenesis — Development of an embryo from an unfertilized egg. The absence of an observed male does not prove it, and both the mechanism and the genetic composition of offspring vary among species and lineages.
Understanding by example
Mourning geckos are a familiar example when discussing parthenogenetic lineages. Reproduction from very few founders matters to island colonization and captive population management. Calling every asexual offspring a genetically identical clone can still overlook variation.
Common misconceptions
An isolated female laying eggs is not immediate proof of parthenogenesis. The eggs may be infertile, or stored sperm from an earlier mating may be involved. Distinguish actual development and hatching, genetic evidence and the individual’s history.
Related reading and sources
For species-specific context, see Parthenogenesis, Clones and Dispersal in Mourning Geckos. Browse the full glossary.
Basic reference: OpenStax Biology 2e: Reproduction Methods.