Definition

The quality of being self-sufficient or independent, particularly in relation to an organism's ability to thrive without relying on others.

Example

The autoecism of the plant allows it to survive in harsh environments without assistance from other species.

Conversation

I was reading about this concept called autoecism in my biology class.

Oh really? What's it about?

It's the quality of being autecious, which means a species can thrive independently.

That sounds interesting! I love learning about how different species adapt.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Autoecism → It is formed from "auto-" (from Greek "αὐτός", meaning self) and "oikos" (from Greek, meaning house or environment). The term refers to an organism that can complete its life cycle in a single environment, emphasizing its self-sufficiency within that specific habitat.

Memory Tip

Think of 'self' ('auto-') living in its own 'house' or environment ('oikos') — that's why autoecism refers to an organism thriving in a single habitat.

Visually Confused Words