Definition

A process where one plant species releases chemicals that prevent the growth of another plant species.

Example

The phenomenon of allelopathy can significantly affect plant community dynamics.

Conversation

I recently learned about allelopathy in my biology class.

Oh really? What is that exactly?

It's how some plants can release chemicals that inhibit the growth of others.

That's fascinating! I didn't know plants could do that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Allelopathy → It is formed from "allelon" (from Greek, meaning each other) and "pathos" (from Greek, meaning suffering or feeling). The term describes the chemical interactions between plants that can affect each other's growth, essentially indicating how they can cause suffering or changes in each other through chemical means.

Memory Tip

Think of plants affecting 'each other' ('allelon') in a way that causes 'suffering' or changes ('pathos') — that's what allelopathy means.

Visually Confused Words