Apomixis Citrus trees and many other species of angiosperms use their seeds as a method of asexual reproduction; a process called apomixis. * In one form, the egg is formed with 2n chromosomes and develops without ever being fertilized. * In another version, the cells of the ovule (2n) develop into an embryo instead of  or in addition to  the fertilized egg. Recently, an example of apomixis in gymnosperms was discovered (see Pichot, C., et al, in the 5 July 2001 issue of Nature). In a rare cypress, the pollen grains are diploid, not haploid, and can develop into an embryo when they land on either * the female cones of their own species (rare) or * those of a much more common species of cypress. Is this paternal apomixis in a surrogate mother a desperate attempt to avoid extinction? (this was all cut and pasted) I am attempting to stay ontopic but my husband says I am argumentative. Still, I HAVE to ask what babies came before Seth, Cain, and Abel? (biblically speaking) I guess my education is lacking. -Ais. Here is a link that might be useful: more on asexual reproduction

omgosh you lucky duck!! i'd give almost anything to see one in person (heck after all this time here with no trees, i'd give almost anything to see a chickadee or a tufted titmouse too) you got some fantastic shots there joanie!

He almost looks unreal! I've never seen one. I googled to see if they are found here in Virginia. I found an instance of one seen in December, 2007, actually about 10 miles from me, which is the second one ever seen. Didn't give the date of the first one. You are so fortunate to have been in the right place at the right time. Let us know if he comes back, and maybe brings his mate. Sue

That is looking terrific, Jra, and very impressive. Maybe you can have your little ones help you with a crash test. You all jump at once and your husband gets ready to catch or duck as the case may be. If it turns out you don't finish by 2010, I guarantee you'll have chosen a half dozen backsplashes in the meantime. Been there. :)