Definition

A biological term that describes a plant species where individual plants are either male or female, meaning that both sexes are needed for reproduction.

Example

In many dioecious species, such as holly, you need both male and female plants to produce berries.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term dioecy?

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

It refers to plants that have male and female individuals, right?

Exactly! It’s interesting how nature has such varied reproductive strategies.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dioecy is formed from "di-" (meaning two) and "oikos" (meaning house or dwelling). The term refers to a reproductive system in plants where male and female reproductive organs are found on separate individuals, hence the concept of two houses.

Memory Tip

Think of 'two' ('di-') and 'houses' ('oikos') to remember that dioecy refers to plants having separate male and female individuals.

Visually Confused Words