ACIDOPHILOUS Meaning and
Definition
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Acidophilous is an adjective that describes an organism or community of organisms that thrive in an acidic environment. Derived from the combination of the words "acid" and "philous" meaning "loving," this term is most commonly associated with plants, rocks, soil, and microorganisms that can withstand and even benefit from acidic conditions.
In the context of soil or rocks, acidophilous organisms are usually found in regions with acidic pH levels, typically below 6.5. These organisms have adapted and developed the ability to tolerate, utilize, or even require the presence of acidic conditions in order to survive and reproduce. Some examples of acidophilous plants include various species of heather, rhododendron, and blueberries, which thrive in acidic soil environments.
Acidophilous microorganisms, such as certain bacteria and fungi, are also capable of surviving in acid-rich habitats, like peat bogs or sulfuric springs. These microorganisms play crucial roles in the breakdown and decomposition of organic matter in these acidic environments.
It is important to note that acidophilous organisms' preference for acidic conditions does not necessarily mean they are exclusively restricted to such environments. They can often tolerate a range of pH levels, but they tend to exhibit optimal growth and reproduction rates under acidic conditions.
Overall, acidophilous refers to the affinity, adaptation, or requirement of an organism or community to thrive in acidic environments, showcasing their ability to survive and function in conditions that would be detrimental or unfavorable to most other living organisms.
Common Misspellings for ACIDOPHILOUS
- zcidophilous
- scidophilous
- wcidophilous
- qcidophilous
- axidophilous
- avidophilous
- afidophilous
- adidophilous
- acudophilous
- acjdophilous
- ackdophilous
- acodophilous
- ac9dophilous
- ac8dophilous
- acisophilous
- acixophilous
- acicophilous
- acifophilous
- acirophilous
Etymology of ACIDOPHILOUS
The word "acidophilous" comes from the combination of two root words: "acid" and "philous".
1. "Acid" originates from the Latin word "acidus", which means sour or sharp. The Latin word derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "h₂eḱ-", which signifies sharp or pointed.
2. "-Philous" is derived from the Greek word "philos", meaning loving or friend. The term comes from the Proto-Indo-European root "bʰel-", which indicates goodwill or love.
Combining these roots, "acidophilous" can be broken down as "acid" (referring to acidity) + "-philous" (indicating a liking or affinity for something). Therefore, "acidophilous" characterizes an organism or substance that thrives in acidic conditions or environments.
Similar spelling words for ACIDOPHILOUS
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