Unraveling the Mystery of Asexual Animal Reproduction: Insights from Fruit Flies and Genetic Engineering
Scientists have successfully induced virgin birth, or parthenogenesis, in fruit flies by altering three genes, providing a genetic basis for this phenomenon. The genetically modified fruit flies were able to pass down their ability to reproduce without mating to subsequent generations. Virgin birth is thought to occur as a survival strategy when a species faces unfavorable conditions, such as a lack of mates. The findings have implications for food security, as virgin births may be becoming more common among crop pests. Modern agricultural practices, including the use of pesticides and homogeneous crops, could be contributing to this phenomenon.
