What does budding refer to in biological terms?

Budding is a biological process that involves a form of asexual reproduction in which a new organism develops from an outgrowth or "bud" on the parent organism. This new individual begins as a small protrusion of the parent and eventually grows to a size where it can detach and live independently. This method of reproduction is seen in various organisms, including certain species of yeast, hydra, and plants.

While there are other forms of reproduction such as sexual reproduction and cloning, budding is specifically characterized by the way new cells or organisms form directly on and remain attached to the parent until they are mature enough to separate. This highlights the unique aspect of budding as a strategic way for organisms to reproduce and thrive without the complexity of finding a mate, which is crucial for survival in certain environments.