What biological process allows female zebra sharks to reproduce without fertilization?
Answer
Parthenogenesis
The zebra shark exhibits a rare reproductive strategy among vertebrates known as parthenogenesis, which is often termed a 'virgin birth.' This asexual process involves the female producing viable embryos originating from unfertilized eggs. Offspring resulting from parthenogenesis are genetically identical clones of the mother. Scientists have observed this phenomenon occurring whether or not the female has previously mated with a male, indicating that this unusual pathway is an available reproductive option regardless of prior sexual history.
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