Definition

Referring to two or more traits or species that are equally dominant or influential in a particular environment or context.

Example

In the forest, oak and pine trees are codominant, both contributing to the canopy's structure.

Conversation

I was reading about plant species in our local forest.

Oh really? What did you find interesting?

I learned that some trees can be codominant in the canopy, which helps the ecosystem thrive.

That's cool! It shows how important diversity is in nature.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A species that is one of the most important or characteristic members of a community in ecology.

Example

The oak tree is often considered a codominant species in many forest ecosystems.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term codominant in ecology?

Yeah, I think it refers to species that coexist in a community.

Exactly! It’s interesting how some species can be codominant and still thrive together.

Root Explanation

Codominant → It is formed from "co-" (meaning together) and "dominant" (from Latin "dominans", meaning ruling or controlling). The word describes a situation where two alleles are both expressed equally in a heterozygote, thus ruling together in the phenotype.

Memory Tip

Think of two things 'ruling together' — 'co-' means together, and 'dominant' refers to ruling. This helps you remember that codominant means both traits are equally expressed.

Visually Confused Words