Amphimixis is a biological term that refers to sexual reproduction in which the genes of the offspring are derived from two different parents. The pronunciation of this word is /æmfəˈmɪksɪs/ (am-fuh-mik-sis), where the stress falls on the second syllable. The first three letters 'amp' are pronounced as /æm/, followed by 'phi' which is pronounced as /fə/, and the last three letters 'mix' are pronounced as /mɪks/. The letter 'i' is pronounced as /ɪ/ and the letter 's' at the end is pronounced as /s/.
Amphimixis is a biological term that refers to the sexual reproduction process in which genetic material from two parent organisms combines to produce offspring with a unique combination of traits. It is commonly observed in organisms that reproduce sexually, including plants, animals, and fungi.
During amphimixis, two parent organisms contribute their genetic material to the process. This involves the fusion of specialized reproductive cells, such as eggs and sperm, which contain the genetic information necessary for the development of the offspring. The fusion of these cells results in the formation of a zygote, which then undergoes further division and development.
Amphimixis plays a crucial role in increasing genetic diversity within a population. By combining genetic material from two different individuals, it introduces new variations and traits into the gene pool. This diversity is crucial for the survival and adaptability of a population, as it provides a wider range of genetic possibilities for natural selection to act upon.
The term "amphimixis" is derived from the Greek words "amphi," meaning "both" or "on both sides," and "mixis," meaning "mixture" or "mingling." Together, these words encapsulate the essence of sexual reproduction, where genetic material is contributed from both parents and mixed together. Amphimixis is a fundamental process in the life cycles of many organisms and has played a vital role in the evolution and survival of species throughout history.
Union of the paternal and maternal chromatin after impregnation of the ovum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "amphimixis" is derived from the Greek words "amphi" meaning "both" or "on both sides", and "mixis" meaning "mixture" or "mating". In biology, "amphimixis" refers to the mixing or combination of genetic material through sexual reproduction.