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Parthenogenetic - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Parthenogenetic describes reproduction without fertilization, where an organism develops from an unfertilized egg. It occurs in some plants, insects, and reptiles, producing offspring genetically identical to the parent.

parthenogenetic

/ˌpɑrθənoʊdʒəˈnɛtɪk/ /ˌpɑːθənəʊdʒɪˈnɛtɪk/

Definition:

Reproduction without fertilization, typically involving an unfertilized egg developing into a new organism.

Synonyms:

asexual reproduction, agamogenesis, virgin birth

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

sexual reproduction, amphimixis

Common Collocations:

parthenogenetic species, parthenogenetic offspring, parthenogenetic development

Derivatives:

parthenogenesis, parthenogenetically

Usage Tips:

Use "parthenogenetic" to describe organisms like aphids or komodo dragons that reproduce without male fertilization.

Common Phrases:

virgin birth phenomenon, asexual reproduction process

Etymology:

From Greek "parthenos" (virgin) + "genesis" (origin), meaning reproduction without male involvement.

Examples:

  • 1. Some insects exhibit parthenogenetic reproduction under certain conditions.
  • 2. The komodo dragon is a rare example of a parthenogenetic vertebrate species.
  • 3. Scientists studied the parthenogenetic offspring of the aphid population.
  • 4. Parthenogenetic development avoids the genetic diversity seen in sexual reproduction.

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