PAEDOMORPHISM Meaning and
Definition
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Paedomorphism, also known as neoteny, is a biological concept that describes the retention of juvenile or infantile characteristics into adulthood in an organism. It refers to the process by which an organism exhibits juvenile traits that are normally associated with the earlier stages of development.
In paedomorphism, certain characteristics and features that are typically developed or transformed during the adult stage are retained in the organism. This can include physical characteristics such as body size, proportion, and morphology, as well as behavioral traits or specific physiological features.
Paedomorphism can occur due to various factors, including genetic mutations, changes in natural selection pressures, or environmental conditions. It can result from either the delayed development of certain traits or the acceleration of reproductive maturity without the simultaneous development of other traits. This phenomenon has been observed in various species, including amphibians, insects, fish, and mammals.
In the field of evolutionary biology, paedomorphism is considered an evolutionary process that can contribute to the diversification and adaptation of species. The retention of juvenile features can provide advantages in certain environments, such as increased agility, enhanced locomotion, or the ability to occupy different ecological niches.
Overall, paedomorphism is a significant concept in understanding the complexity of developmental processes, as well as the evolutionary adaptations and strategies employed by different organisms.
Common Misspellings for PAEDOMORPHISM
- oaedomorphism
- laedomorphism
- 0aedomorphism
- pzedomorphism
- psedomorphism
- pwedomorphism
- pqedomorphism
- pawdomorphism
- pasdomorphism
- paddomorphism
- pardomorphism
- pa4domorphism
- pa3domorphism
- paesomorphism
- paexomorphism
- paecomorphism
- paefomorphism
- paeromorphism
- paeeomorphism
- paedimorphism
Etymology of PAEDOMORPHISM
The word "paedomorphism" is derived from two roots: "paedo" and "morphism".
1. "Paedo" is derived from the Greek word "pais/paidos", which means "child". It has been widely used to refer to characteristics or conditions related to children, such as pediatrics (medical care for children) or pedagogy (the science of teaching).
2. "Morphism" is derived from the Greek word "morphē", which means "form" or "shape". It is commonly used in biology to describe the change or transformation of an organism's structure.
Therefore, "paedomorphism" combines these two roots to describe a biological process or condition wherein an organism retains juvenile or child-like characteristics or traits into adulthood or mature stages.
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