Kenogenesis (Noun)
Meaning
Introduction during embryonic development of characters or structure not present in the earlier evolutionary history of the strain or species (such as the addition of the placenta in mammalian evolution).
Classification
Nouns denoting natural processes.
Examples
- The scientists observed an instance of kenogenesis during embryonic development, where a previously unknown limb structure appeared in a subset of the species.
- Researchers proposed that kenogenesis was the driving force behind the emergence of complex mammalian placentas during fetal development.
- Studies on embryonic tissue formation highlighted an unexpected example of kenogenesis, as completely new types of cells began to form.
- The unusual phenomenon of kenogenesis observed in the early developmental stages shed new light on how novel characteristics arise within a species.
- Evolutionary biologists saw the emergence of the embryonic tail in vertebrates as a prime example of kenogenesis, showcasing its role in development and evolutionary innovation.