Anisogamy (Noun)
Meaning
(biology) reproduction by the union or fusion of two differing gametes (especially differing in size).
Classification
Nouns denoting natural processes.
Examples
- Anisogamy refers to a reproductive process where two gametes of different sizes fuse to form a zygote.
- Male gametes with smaller size and lower volume usually contain a smaller amount of cytoplasm compared to the larger female gametes in organisms exhibiting anisogamy.
- The evolution of anisogamy can be attributed to several factors including enhanced fertilization rates, smaller male gametes, and more efficient energy utilization by the female gamete.
- Certain species exhibit types of anisogamy like physiogamy where the gametes are morphologically identical but differ in their swimming speed.
- Females in anisogamous mating systems tend to invest more energy in producing viable offspring than males, resulting in differential contribution of parental resources to the zygote.