What characterizes asexual reproduction?

Asexual reproduction is characterized by the production of offspring that are genetic copies of a single organism. This type of reproduction does not involve the combination of genetic material from two parent organisms, which is key to understanding how it differs from sexual reproduction. In asexual reproduction, an organism divides or buds off to create new individuals that are genetically identical to itself, thus ensuring that the traits present in the parent are passed on exactly. This mechanism is common in many organisms such as bacteria, certain plants, and some animals.

The other options highlight characteristics of sexual reproduction or mechanisms that do not align with the nature of asexual reproduction. For instance, involving two parent organisms or the requirement for gamete fusion refers to sexual reproduction, which introduces genetic diversity among offspring. In contrast, asexual reproduction emphasizes genetic uniformity and efficiency. Therefore, option C accurately captures the essence of asexual reproduction.