Definition

A biological term describing a situation where an organism produces male and female reproductive parts at different times, or changes its sex during its life, to promote cross-fertilization.

Example

Dichogamy is important in some plants to prevent self-fertilization and encourage genetic diversity.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of dichogamy in plants?

I think so, but I’m not completely sure what it means.

It's pretty interesting; it helps ensure cross-fertilization.

That makes sense! Nature has some clever strategies.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dichogamy → It is formed from "di-" (meaning two) and "chogamy" (from Greek "gamos", meaning marriage or union). The term describes a reproductive strategy involving two different timing mechanisms in flowering plants, hence the concept of two unions or marriages occurring at different times.

Memory Tip

Think of 'two' ('di-') different 'unions' ('gamos') happening at different times — that's what dichogamy means.

Visually Confused Words