Gynogenesis (Noun)
Meaning
Female parthenogenesis in which the embryo contains only maternal chromosomes due to the failure of the sperm to fuse with the egg nucleus.
Classification
Nouns denoting natural processes.
Examples
- Gynogenesis is a rare reproductive process in which an egg develops into an embryo without fertilization by a sperm, resulting in offspring with only maternal chromosomes.
- Some species of fish and amphibians are known to exhibit gynogenesis, a form of parthenogenesis that involves the stimulation of egg development by sperm without actual fertilization.
- In gynogenesis, the sperm penetrates the egg but does not fuse with the egg nucleus, allowing the egg to develop into an embryo with only maternal genetic material.
- Gynogenesis has been observed in certain species of whiptail lizards, where unfertilized eggs can develop into offspring with only maternal chromosomes.
- The study of gynogenesis in certain species of fish has provided insights into the mechanisms of parthenogenesis and the role of sperm in stimulating egg development.