Why are the offspring formed by asexual reproduction referred to as a clone?

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Definition of Asexual Reproduction**: Asexual reproduction is a type of reproduction that involves only one parent. This means that it does not require the fusion of gametes (sperm and egg) and is therefore termed uniparental reproduction.

2. **Absence of Gametogenesis and Fertilization**: In asexual reproduction, processes such as gametogenesis (the formation of gametes) and fertilization do not occur. This is significant because these processes are responsible for genetic variation in sexually reproducing organisms.

3. **Cell Division Type**: The type of cell division that occurs during asexual reproduction is mitosis. Mitosis is an equational division, meaning that the daughter cells produced are genetically identical to the parent cell.

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