Ans. Reproduction
Reproduction is defined as the production of individuals of the same species i.e. the next generation of species. While it is one of the fundamental characteristics of living things, it is not an essential life process.
Significance
Reproduction is essential for the continuation of species. It ensures that the genetic material of one generation is transmitted to the next. Each generation produces more offspring's for the next generation. Many individuals die due to various reasons like diseases, competition, genetic factors etc. before reaching the reproductive age. Only the fittest and the best survive and reach the reproductive age. This ensures that the advantageous characteristics are transmitted to the next generation.