HEMIGAMOUS Meaning and
Definition
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Hemigamous is an adjective that refers to a specific mating pattern observed in certain species, particularly plants. The term is derived from the combination of "hemi-" meaning half or partial, and "-gamous" meaning the process of mating or reproduction.
In the context of plant breeding, hemigamous describes a form of mating where only a portion of the flowers or reproductive structures participate in the fertilization process. This is in contrast to species that exhibit complete or full self-fertilization (autogamy) or outcrossing (allogamy).
In hemigamous species, individuals possess both male and female reproductive organs within a single flower or on the same plant. However, instead of relying solely on self-fertilization or cross-fertilization, hemigamous plants engage in a mixed strategy. They have a partial predisposition towards outcrossing and promote the exchange of genetic material with other individuals in their population.
This mating pattern can enhance genetic diversity within a population by introducing novel genetic variations through cross-fertilization without completely abandoning the benefits of self-fertilization. Hemigamous plants often employ mechanisms to encourage pollination between distinct individuals, such as having separate male and female flowers or adapting their reproductive structures to facilitate pollen transfer.
Hemigamy contributes to the evolutionary success of certain plant species by striking a balance between the advantages of self-fertilization, such as reproductive assurance, and the advantages of outcrossing, such as increased genetic variation and potential for adaptation to changing environments.
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Having two florets in the same spikelet, one of which is neuter and the other unisexual.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for HEMIGAMOUS
- gemigamous
- bemigamous
- nemigamous
- jemigamous
- uemigamous
- yemigamous
- hwmigamous
- hsmigamous
- hdmigamous
- hrmigamous
- h4migamous
- h3migamous
- henigamous
- hekigamous
- hejigamous
- hemugamous
- hemjgamous
- hemkgamous
- hemogamous
Etymology of HEMIGAMOUS
The word "hemigamous" combines the roots "hemi-" and "-gamous".
"Hemi-" is derived from the Greek word "hēmi-" meaning "half" or "partially". It is often used in words to indicate half or partialness.
The suffix "-gamous" is derived from the Greek word "gamos" meaning "marriage" or "union". It is commonly used in words to describe forms of marriage or reproductive behavior.
Therefore, the word "hemigamous" can be understood to mean "partially or half-marriage" or "partially or half-reproductive behavior".
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