In asexual reproduction, only one parent is involved.

Asexual reproduction is a type of reproduction that only requires a single parent to produce offspring. This process does not involve the fusion of gametes or the exchange of genetic material between two individuals. Instead, the parent organism produces offspring that are genetically identical or very similar to itself.

There are several mechanisms by which asexual reproduction can occur, including:

Binary Fission: Some organisms, such as bacteria and certain single-celled organisms, reproduce through binary fission. In this process, the parent organism divides into two identical daughter cells.

Budding: Budding is a form of asexual reproduction commonly observed in organisms such as yeast and hydra. In this process, a small bud forms on the parent organism and eventually detaches to become a genetically identical individual.

Fragmentation: Fragmentation is a type of asexual reproduction seen in organisms such as starfish and flatworms. In this process, the parent organism breaks into fragments, and each fragment can regenerate into a new individual.

Vegetative Propagation: Many plants reproduce asexually through vegetative propagation. This can occur through various means, such as runners, rhizomes, bulbs, and tubers. These structures allow the parent plant to produce genetically identical offspring.

While sexual reproduction involves the fusion of gametes from two parents, asexual reproduction only requires one parent. The offspring produced through asexual reproduction are genetically identical or very similar to the parent organism, as there is no mixing of genetic material.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Asexual Reproduction:

Advantages:
- Asexual reproduction is a rapid and efficient method of reproduction, allowing for the production of many offspring in a short period.
- It does not require the search for a mate or the energy expenditure associated with courtship and mating behaviors.
- Asexual reproduction ensures that the offspring inherit all the favorable traits of the parent organism, maintaining a high level of genetic consistency.

Disadvantages:
- Asexual reproduction does not allow for the generation of genetic diversity, which can limit the ability of the offspring to adapt to changing environments.
- It can lead to the accumulation of harmful mutations since there is no recombination of genetic material.
- Asexual reproduction may result in overcrowding and competition for resources, as offspring remain in close proximity to the parent organism.

In conclusion, asexual reproduction involves only one parent and does not require the involvement of two parents or the exchange of genetic material. This process allows for rapid reproduction and the production of genetically identical or similar offspring. However, it lacks the genetic diversity and adaptability associated with sexual reproduction.