How Do You Spell GONOCHORISTIC?

Pronunciation: [ɡˌɒnəkɔːɹˈɪstɪk] (IPA)

Gonochoristic is a term that describes organisms that have distinct male and female sexes. The word is pronounced /ɡəˌnɑkəˈrɪstɪk/ (guh-NOH-kuh-ris-tik), with the stress on the second syllable. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "u" sound, while the final syllable has a short "i" sound. The "ch" in the middle is pronounced like a "k" sound, and the emphasis is on the second syllable. The spelling of this word may be difficult, but it is an important term used in biology to describe reproductive systems.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
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GONOCHORISTIC Meaning and Definition

  1. Gonochoristic is an adjective used to describe a reproductive system found in certain animal species. The term is derived from the Greek words "gonos" meaning "gender" or "sexual reproductive organ," and "khorizo" meaning "separate" or "divide." In gonochoristic species, individuals are divided into two distinct genders, either male or female, with each possessing specific reproductive organs.

    Unlike in hermaphroditic species, where individuals possess both male and female reproductive structures, gonochoristic species have separate sexes. This means that for sexual reproduction to occur, individuals of different sexes must come together. Typically, gonochoristic organisms have specific sexual characteristics that differentiate males from females. This can include differences in size, shape, coloration, or the presence of secondary sexual traits such as horns, antlers, or specific body patterns.

    The reproductive process in gonochoristic species involves the transfer of gametes (sperm and eggs) from one sex to the other. Males produce and release sperm, while females produce and release eggs. Fertilization occurs externally or internally, depending on the species. Following fertilization, the female incubates the eggs, and eventually, offspring grow and develop.

    Gonochorism provides advantages such as increased genetic diversity and specialization of reproductive roles. It also ensures that there is a division of labor and resources between sexes. However, it also means that individuals of the same sex cannot reproduce with each other, potentially limiting the reproductive options for each individual. Overall, gonochorism is a reproductive strategy observed in various animal species, ensuring the continuation of their lineage through the union of distinct male and female genders.

Common Misspellings for GONOCHORISTIC

Etymology of GONOCHORISTIC

The word "gonochoristic" is derived from the Greek words "gonos", meaning "gender" or "reproductive organ", and "khoros", meaning "boundary" or "separation". The suffix "-istic" is added to indicate a characteristic or state. Therefore, the etymology of "gonochoristic" suggests that it refers to organisms that have separate sexes or reproductive organs, as opposed to hermaphroditic organisms that possess both male and female reproductive organs.