Page 191 - Innovator's Science-8

Life thrives on Earth not because of one factor alone, but because many
systems work together in harmony. This balance keeps the planet suitable

for life. That’s why it is so important to protect our natural resources-clean
air, fresh water, healthy soil, and all forms of life. Preserving this balance is
essential for keeping Earth a safe and liveable home for generations to
come.

Asexual Reproduction

Many plants have the ability to grow new plants from parts like leaves,
stems, or roots. This type of reproduction, which does not require seeds, is
called vegetative propagation.

Activity-3 Aim: To explore plant growth without seeds.
Procedure:
Experiential Learning
• Collect parts of plants such as a stem cu ng of a money
plant, a sprouted potato with 'eyes', or a piece of ginger.

• Plant them separately in moist soil. For the money
plant, place the cu ng in a glass container filled with
water so it's easy to observe. Vegeta ve propaga on—
(a) Ginger; (b) Patoto
• Make sure they get enough air, sunlight, and water.
• Observe daily and note when roots, shoots, and new leaves start to grow.

This simple method of growing plants is a form of asexual reproduction ,

where only one parent is involved, and the new plant is genetically identical
to it.

But it is not just plants— many simple organisms also reproduce this way.
For example:

• Bacteria and amoeba (single-celled organisms) divide into two identical
cells.

• Algae can grow from small broken pieces.
• Hydra, a tiny aquatic animal, grows small buds on its body that
eventually detach and form new individuals.
Planaria
• Planaria, a type of flatworm, can regenerate into a whole new organism
even from a small fragment. Scientists study them to understand how

regeneration works in animals.
Sexual Reproduction

In sexual reproduction , two parents– usually referred to as male and

female– are involved. This is commonly seen in animals, but even plants
and microorganisms can reproduce this way.

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Science-8