Which term refers to reproduction without the involvement of sex?

The term "asexual" refers to a mode of reproduction that occurs without the involvement of sex. In asexual reproduction, an organism can produce offspring that are genetically identical to itself, as there is no fusion of gametes (sperm and egg). This method is common in many organisms, including single-celled organisms like bacteria, some plants, and certain animals.

Asexual reproduction can take various forms, such as binary fission, budding, or fragmentation, but the defining characteristic is that it does not involve the combination of genetic material from two parents, which is a hallmark of sexual reproduction. This allows for rapid population growth in stable environments, as offspring can be produced quickly and in large numbers without the need for a mate.