Figure 6

Three reproduction decision points (rectangles) observed at temporally distinct life cycle phases during the eukaryote life cycle. In cyclical apomicts, whether an apomictic or sexual pathway is pursued is controlled environmentally. In favorable environments, sex is suppressed and rapid reproduction by apomixis occurs. In stressful conditions, apomixis is suppressed and sex occurs (often resulting in stress-tolerant products). The two modes of reproduction require different developmental events at temporally distinct life cycle stages. An epigenomic memory of the reproductive mode during the life cycle is implicated.