Stick insects called Timema have evolved from reproducing sexually to reproducing asexually through a process called parthenogenesis. Researchers found that all five asexual species likely came from sexual ancestors, with one possibly being a hybrid. The asexual stick insects maintain genetic diversity by producing eggs through apomixis, a type of asexual reproduction. This transition from sexual to asexual reproduction happened directly in several species, leading to high genetic diversity and efficient reproduction without the need for mating.