Anaerobic respiration is a type of cellular respiration that occurs in the absence of oxygen. It is the process by which cells generate energy through the breakdown of glucose without the need for oxygen. This process is less efficient than aerobic respiration, which requires oxygen, and produces lactic acid or ethanol as byproducts. Anaerobic respiration is commonly used by microorganisms such as bacteria and yeast, as well as by muscle cells during intense physical activity when oxygen supply is limited.
