How Do You Spell HETEROGAMOUS?

Pronunciation: [hɛtɹˈə͡ʊɡɐməs] (IPA)

Heterogamous ([hɛtərəʊˈɡeɪməs]) is a biological term used to describe the condition in which male and female gametes are different in size and structure. The word consists of four syllables, with the primary stress falling on the third syllable. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "e" sound, the second and third syllables have a schwa sound. The fourth syllable is pronounced with a long "u" sound. The spelling of this word follows the typical English pattern of using prefixes and suffixes to form complex scientific terminology.

HETEROGAMOUS Meaning and Definition

1. Heterogamous is an adjective that refers to the condition or state of being heterogamy. Heterogamy, in turn, is a biological term that describes the fusion or union of gametes (reproductive cells) of different sizes or forms. It is a phenomenon commonly observed in organisms that reproduce sexually.

   In heterogamous species, the female and male gametes, often called eggs and sperm, respectively, differ in size, shape, or structure. This difference in gametes is an adaptation that enhances genetic diversity and variability within the offspring. By combining genetic material from two different individuals, heterogamy increases the potential for offspring to possess advantageous traits and adapt to changing environmental conditions.

   Heterogamous reproduction can be seen in many organisms, including plants, animals, and protists. For instance, in flowering plants, heterogamy occurs when pollen from one flower is transferred to the stigma of another flower, promoting cross-fertilization. In animals, heterogamy is exemplified by the fusion of sperm and eggs during sexual reproduction, which promotes genetic recombination.

   Overall, the term heterogamous describes the process of sexual reproduction involving the fusion of dissimilar gametes. It is a fundamental aspect of evolutionary biology that plays a crucial role in genetic variability and the survival of species.

2. In bot., having the essential parts of fructification on different spikelets from the same root.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for HETEROGAMOUS

• geterogamous
• beterogamous
• neterogamous
• jeterogamous
• ueterogamous
• yeterogamous
• hwterogamous
• hsterogamous
• hdterogamous
• hrterogamous
• h4terogamous
• h3terogamous
• hererogamous
• heferogamous
• hegerogamous
• heyerogamous
• he6erogamous
• he5erogamous
• hetwrogamous

Etymology of HETEROGAMOUS

The word heterogamous is derived from the combination of two Greek roots.

1. Hetero- comes from the Greek word heteros, meaning other or different.

2. -gamous comes from the Greek word gamos, meaning marriage or union.

When these two roots are combined, heterogamous is formed, meaning having different or diverse mating types or unions.