Explain why plants that are grown commercially are often reproduced by asexual methods.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2020). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. [1] mitosis;
2. [1] only one parent;
3. [1] all cells / organisms produced are genetically identical / clones;
4. [1] artificial selection / under human control;
5. [1] reproduces selected / desirable features or example ;
6. [1] can be done throughout year / in different seasons ;
7. [1] no need to rely on pollinators ;
8. [1] fast + reason, e.g. no waiting for seeds to form / germinate / grow ;
9. [1] bees are pollinators;
10. [1] reduced yields / fewer seeds ;
11. [1] fewer offspring / plants produced ;
12. [1] less plants for herbivores / first trophic level ;
13. [1] fewer bees + effect on consumers / food chains / webs / ecosystems / biodiversity ;
14. [1] reduced honey production ;