Definition

The condition where a microorganism cannot produce a necessary organic compound for its growth, usually due to a genetic change.

Example

The auxotrophy of the bacteria made it dependent on external sources of nutrients.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term auxotrophy?

Yeah, I think it's something about microorganisms, right?

Exactly! It refers to their inability to synthesize certain compounds.

That's pretty interesting; I didn't know that could happen due to mutations!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Auxotrophy → It is formed from "auxo-" (from Greek "auxein", meaning to increase or grow) and "trophy" (from Greek "trophē", meaning nourishment or development). The word describes a condition where an organism requires additional nutrients to grow, indicating a need for increased nourishment.

Memory Tip

Think of 'growth' ('auxo-') and 'nourishment' ('trophy') to remember that auxotrophy refers to the need for extra nutrients to grow.

Visually Confused Words