To reproduce (生殖, seishoku) is to make a generation of new individuals of a species by an organism to increase the number of individuals of that species.
It is a basic life phenomenon found in all living organisms and is generally classified into asexual reproduction and sexual reproduction, although different organisms use different methods.
When the emphasis is on the increase in the number of offspring, the terms "reproduction" and "propagation" are used.
Asexual Reproduction
A method of reproduction in which somatic cells are divided to increase the number of individuals. Asexual reproduction is characterized by the fact that the offspring are genetically identical to the parents.
Sexual Reproduction
A reproductive method in which two gametes, one female and one male, combine to form a zygote, which develops to produce a new generation of individuals.
For reproduction of non-life see Reproduction.
