Definition

Referring to organisms that produce male and female reproductive structures in separate individuals or forms, commonly seen in certain types of algae and fungi.

Example

Some species of fungi are heterothallic, meaning they require two different mating types to reproduce.

Conversation

Did you know some plants are heterothallic?

Really? I had no idea what that meant.

It means they produce male and female structures separately.

That’s interesting! Nature is so complex.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Heterothallic → It is formed from "hetero-" (from Greek "heteros", meaning different) and "thallic" (from Greek "thallos", meaning a young shoot or twig). The word describes organisms that have different sexual structures or types, particularly in the context of certain plants and fungi.

Memory Tip

Think of 'different' ('hetero-') young shoots or structures ('thallic') — this helps you remember that 'heterothallic' refers to organisms with different sexual types.

Visually Confused Words