Anaerobic respiration occurs in the cytoplasm of cells, where glucose is partially broken down without using oxygen.

Core idea

  • In both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, the reactions of anaerobic respiration (glycolysis plus fermentation) take place in the cytoplasm rather than in mitochondria.
  • In humans, this happens especially in muscle cells during intense exercise when oxygen is in short supply.
  • In plants and yeast, anaerobic respiration also occurs in the cytoplasm, for example in waterlogged roots or during fermentation in yeast.

Quick Scoop

  • Location in the cell: cytoplasm (not mitochondria).
  • In humans: mainly active in overworked muscle cells (e.g., sprinting, weightlifting) where it produces lactic acid.
  • In plants and yeast: cytoplasm of cells in low‑oxygen conditions, producing ethanol and carbon dioxide (fermentation).

In exam-style questions like “Which part of the cell does anaerobic respiration take place?”, the expected one-word answer is “cytoplasm.”

TL;DR: Anaerobic respiration happens in the cytoplasm of cells, especially in muscle cells in animals and in low‑oxygen tissues or fermenting cells in plants and yeast.

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