DIAPAUSE Meaning and
Definition
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Diapause is a term used in biology to describe a physiological state of dormancy or suspension of metabolism exhibited by certain organisms, typically insects, during unfavorable environmental conditions. It is a survival mechanism that enables the organism to withstand periods of extreme temperatures, lack of food, or other adverse factors.
During diapause, an organism enters a phase of reduced activity and metabolic rate, resembling a state of temporary hibernation. This state allows the organism to conserve energy and resources until more favorable conditions return. Diapause is a highly coordinated and regulated process controlled by internal and external factors.
The diapause period can vary in duration, depending on the species and environmental conditions. It may last for a few days, weeks, months, or even years. Some organisms enter diapause as eggs, larvae, pupae, or adults and resume development when conditions normalize. In some cases, diapause can also synchronize the life cycles of organisms with certain seasonal cues, such as day length.
Diapause is essential for the survival and reproductive success of many organisms, enabling them to adapt and persist in challenging environments. It plays a crucial role in population dynamics, as it allows organisms to avoid unfavorable conditions and resume activity when conditions become more suitable. Studying diapause is of great importance for understanding the ecology and evolutionary biology of various species and their interactions with the environment.
Common Misspellings for DIAPAUSE
Etymology of DIAPAUSE
The word "diapause" is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "dia", meaning "through" or "across", and "pausis", meaning "a stopping" or "a cessation". The term was coined in the early 20th century to describe a condition in certain organisms, particularly insects, in which their development and metabolism are temporarily halted as a response to environmental conditions. The concept of diapause is akin to a state of suspended animation, where growth and other activities are put on hold until more favorable conditions arise.
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