Definition

This term describes plants that have their male and female reproductive parts maturing at different times, which helps them to cross-pollinate instead of self-pollinate.

Example

Many flowering plants are dichogamous, allowing for greater genetic diversity.

Conversation

Did you know that some plants are dichogamous?

Really? What does that mean exactly?

It means their male and female parts mature at different times to help with cross-pollination.

That’s interesting! It sounds like a smart way to ensure diversity.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dichogamous → It is formed from "di-" (meaning two) and "chogamous" (from Greek "chōgamos", meaning marriage or union). The word describes a reproductive strategy in which male and female reproductive organs mature at different times, hence the concept of two distinct mating periods.

Memory Tip

Think of 'two' ('di-') and 'marriage' ('chogamous') to remember that 'dichogamous' refers to organisms that have separate times for male and female reproduction.

Visually Confused Words