Autotomise is spelled /ɔːˈtɒtəmaɪz/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The word refers to the act of a creature deliberately shedding a body part, such as a lizard releasing its tail, in order to escape from a predator. The spelling of "autotomise" is derived from the Greek words "autos" meaning "self" and "temnein" meaning "to cut." The added suffix "-ise" indicates the action or process of cutting oneself. This word may be unfamiliar to some, but it is commonly used in the field of biology.
Autotomise (also spelled autotomize) is a verb that refers to the process of self-amputation or self-severing of a body part, typically observed in certain animals or organisms. The term is derived from the combination of the prefix "auto-" meaning self, and "tomize" meaning to cut.
Autotomise is commonly seen as a defensive mechanism in various organisms. When faced with a threat or danger, these creatures intentionally shed or detach specific body parts, such as limbs, tails, or appendages, to escape or distract their predators. The severed body part may continue moving autonomously, acting as a decoy, while the animal makes its getaway.
This ability is particularly evident in arthropods, such as insects or crustaceans, where it aids in survival and regeneration. Some reptiles, like lizards and geckos, also possess this adaptive trait. While autotomised appendages are typically lost permanently, these animals have the capacity to regenerate the missing body part over time, allowing for functional restoration.
Overall, autotomise is the biological process by which certain organisms sever a part of their own body, usually as a defensive mechanism against predators. It is a remarkable ability that demonstrates the evolutionary adaptations developed by certain species to increase their chances of survival in the face of danger.
The word "autotomize" or "autotomise" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "auto" meaning "self" and "tomos" meaning "cutting" or "section".
In biological context, autotomy refers to the ability of an organism to intentionally detach or sever a certain body part, usually as a defense mechanism against predators. The term "autotomize" is formed by adding the suffix "-ize", meaning "to make" or "to become", to the root "autotomy". Thus, "autotomize" means to carry out or undergo the process of autotomy.