Fragmentation is a form of asexual reproduction where an organism splits into fragments, and each fragment develops into a mature, fully grown individual. Here are examples of organisms that reproduce by fragmentation:
-
Filamentous Cyanobacteria: Lyngbya is an example of filamentous cyanobacteria. When its filament breaks into smaller pieces (fragments), each fragment can grow into a new, identical filament.
-
Molds: Some molds, like those belonging to the genus Aspergillus, can reproduce asexually through fragmentation of their hyphae (filaments).
-
Lichens: Certain lichens can reproduce through fragmentation. Pieces of the lichen thallus (body) break off and, if they land in a suitable environment, develop into new lichens. Cladonia species often reproduce this way.
-
Plants: Many plants utilize fragmentation as a method of vegetative propagation. Examples include:
- Willows (Salix species): Willow branches readily root when they come into contact with moist soil.
- Liverworts: These simple plants easily fragment, and each fragment can grow into a new plant.
- Some grasses: Certain types of grasses spread through fragmentation of their rhizomes (underground stems).
-
Sponges: Sponges, such as those from the class Demospongiae, can reproduce through fragmentation. Small pieces broken off can regenerate into new sponges.
-
Acoel Flatworms: Acoel flatworms, a type of simple marine worm, are well-known for their ability to reproduce through fragmentation. For instance, some Symsagittifera species reproduce by spontaneous fragmentation.
-
Annelid Worms: Some segmented worms, like certain oligochaete worms (e.g., Aeolosoma) and some polychaete worms, can reproduce by fragmentation.
-
Sea Stars: Sea stars, such as Linckia species, are famous for their regenerative abilities and can reproduce by fragmentation. A detached arm can sometimes regenerate into a whole new sea star, provided it contains a portion of the central disc.
