ANISOGAMIC Meaning and
Definition
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Anisogamic is an adjective that describes a type of reproduction or sexual system characterized by the fusion of dissimilar gametes during sexual reproduction. The term is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "aniso" meaning unequal or dissimilar, and "gamos" meaning marriage or union.
In anisogamic reproduction, the individuals, often referred to as sexes, produce two different types of gametes, typically referred to as sperm and eggs. These gametes are structurally and functionally distinct from one another. The fusion of the dissimilar gametes usually occurs during fertilization, leading to the creation of a zygote and subsequent development of a new individual.
Most plants, some invertebrates, and all vertebrates, including humans, exhibit anisogamic reproduction. In these organisms, male individuals typically produce small, motile gametes (sperm), while female individuals produce larger, immobile gametes (eggs). This difference in gamete size and function plays a vital role in sexual dimorphism and the evolution of distinct male and female traits.
Anisogamy is often contrasted with other reproductive systems like isogamy, where gametes are morphologically similar, or oogamy, where a smaller motile male gamete fertilizes a larger immobile female gamete. Understanding anisogamic reproduction is crucial for comprehending the mechanisms of sexual reproduction, mating strategies, and the evolution of sex in different organisms.
Common Misspellings for ANISOGAMIC
- znisogamic
- snisogamic
- wnisogamic
- qnisogamic
- abisogamic
- amisogamic
- ajisogamic
- ahisogamic
- anusogamic
- anjsogamic
- anksogamic
- anosogamic
- an9sogamic
- an8sogamic
- aniaogamic
- anizogamic
- anixogamic
- anidogamic
- anieogamic
Etymology of ANISOGAMIC
The word "anisogamic" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "aniso-" and "-gamic".
1. "Aniso-" is derived from the Greek word "anisos", meaning "unequal" or "dissimilar".
2. "-gamic" is derived from the Greek word "gamos", meaning "marriage" or "union". It is also used in biology to refer to processes related to reproduction, particularly sexual reproduction.
Therefore, "anisogamic" can be understood to mean "pertaining to unequal or dissimilar unions or reproduction", referring to the idea of sexual reproduction involving individuals with different biological characteristics or genders.
Similar spelling words for ANISOGAMIC
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