Definition

1. Adjective:
   • (of reproduction) Not involving the fusion of male and female gametes in reproduction: Describes a biological reproductive process where offspring are produced without fertilization or the union of sperm and egg cells.
   • (of a plant) Reproducing by or relating to apomixis: Specifically refers to plants that produce seeds asexually, resulting in offspring that are genetically identical to the parent plant.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Dandelions often exhibit apomictic reproduction, producing seeds without pollination.
  • The apomictic nature of this species allows it to spread rapidly in new environments.
  • Scientists are studying the apomictic process to understand asexual seed development.

Advanced Usage

• "Apomictic species": A species that reproduces primarily or exclusively through apomixis.
  • Many invasive weeds are apomictic species, which contributes to their success.
• "Apomictic embryo": An embryo that develops from an unfertilized egg cell or other somatic cells within the ovule.
  • The formation of an apomictic embryo bypasses the need for male gametes.

Variants and Related Words

• Apomixis (n): The biological process of asexual reproduction, especially in plants, leading to seed production without fertilization.
  • Apomixis is a form of clonal reproduction through seeds.
• Apomict (n): An organism, especially a plant, that reproduces by apomixis.
  • This dandelion is an apomict.
• Apomictically (adv): In an apomictic manner.
  • The plant reproduces apomictically.

Synonyms

• Asexual (in the context of reproduction): Involving a single parent without gamete fusion.
• Parthenogenetic (specifically when an embryo develops from an unfertilized egg; a type of apomixis in animals).

Related Phrases

• Obligate apomict: A plant that reproduces exclusively by apomixis.
  • The hawkweed is an obligate apomict.
• Facultative apomict: A plant capable of reproducing both sexually and by apomixis.
  • This citrus variety is a facultative apomict, which complicates breeding programs.

Adjective

1. (of reproduction) not involving the fusion of male and female gametes in reproduction
2. of or relating to a plant that reproduces by apomixis