Definition

The state of having two different alleles for a particular gene, one inherited from each parent.

Example

Heterozygosity can increase genetic diversity within a population.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term heterozygosity?

Yeah, I think it relates to genetics, right?

Exactly! It's about the genetic variation in a population.

That makes sense; more variation can lead to better adaptability.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Heterozygosity → It is formed from "hetero-" (from Greek "heteros", meaning different) and "zygos" (from Greek, meaning yoke or joined). The term refers to the condition of having two different alleles at a gene locus, thus being 'joined' in a different way.

Memory Tip

Think of 'different' ('hetero-') alleles being 'joined' ('zygos') together, which helps you remember that heterozygosity refers to having different forms of a gene.

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