Definition

Describing organisms that produce two different kinds of spores that vary in size and reproductive function.

Example

Many plants are heterosporous, meaning they produce both large and small spores for reproduction.

Conversation

Did you know that some plants are heterosporous?

Really? What does that mean exactly?

It means they produce two different types of spores, which is pretty cool.

That is interesting! I love learning about plant biology.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Heterosporous → It is formed from "hetero-" (from Greek "heteros", meaning different) and "sporos" (from Greek "spora", meaning seed or spore). The word describes organisms that produce different types of spores, distinguishing them from those that produce only one type.

Memory Tip

Think of 'different' ('hetero-') types of 'spores' ('sporos') being produced — that's what heterosporous means.

Visually Confused Words