Organism cloning. Organism cloning refers to the procedure of creating a new multicellular organism, genetically identical to another. In essence this form of cloning is an asexual method of reproduction, where fertilization or inter-gamete contact does not take place.

Cloning is a mode of asexual reproduction

Cloning is a method of producing genetically identical copies of an organism. It involves creating an exact replica of an individual without the need for sexual reproduction. Cloning can be achieved through various techniques such as somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) and artificial embryo twinning.

Asexual Reproduction
Asexual reproduction is a mode of reproduction where offspring are produced from a single parent, without the involvement of gametes or fertilization. In asexual reproduction, the offspring are genetically identical or nearly identical to the parent. Cloning is a form of asexual reproduction because it produces offspring that are genetically identical to the parent organism.

Cloning Techniques
1. Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer (SCNT): This technique involves replacing the nucleus of an egg cell with the nucleus of a somatic cell (non-reproductive cell) taken from the organism to be cloned. The resulting egg cell with the transferred nucleus is then stimulated to develop into an embryo and implanted into a surrogate mother. This technique has been used to clone animals such as Dolly the sheep.

2. Artificial Embryo Twinning: This technique involves manually separating an early-stage embryo into individual cells and allowing each cell to develop into a separate embryo. These embryos are then implanted into surrogate mothers. This method has been used to clone animals like cattle.

Advantages of Cloning
- Preservation of Endangered Species: Cloning can be used to preserve endangered species by producing genetically identical copies.
- Medical Research: Cloning can provide valuable models for studying human diseases and developing new treatments.
- Organ Transplants: Cloning could potentially be used to grow organs for transplantation without the risk of rejection.

Disadvantages of Cloning
- Lack of Genetic Diversity: Cloning reduces genetic diversity, which can make a population more vulnerable to diseases and environmental changes.
- Ethical Concerns: Cloning raises ethical concerns, particularly in the case of cloning humans, as it challenges the natural process of reproduction and raises questions about individuality and identity.

In conclusion, cloning is a mode of asexual reproduction as it involves producing genetically identical copies of an organism without the need for sexual reproduction. It can be achieved through techniques like somatic cell nuclear transfer and artificial embryo twinning. Cloning has both advantages and disadvantages and is a topic of ongoing scientific and ethical debate.