Definition

The process by which an organism regenerates a body part through reorganization of its existing cells rather than creating new ones, mainly seen in some invertebrates.

Example

Morphallaxis allows certain species to regrow limbs after losing them.

Conversation

Did you hear about how some lobsters can regenerate their claws?

Yeah, I read that they use a process called morphallaxis to do that.

That's fascinating! I wonder how it feels for them to grow back a limb like that.

I know, right? Nature has some wild ways of healing itself.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Morphallaxis → It is formed from "morph-" (from Greek "morphē", meaning form or shape) and "-allaxis" (from Greek "allaxis", meaning change or alteration). The word describes a process of regeneration or change in form, particularly in certain organisms that can regenerate body parts.

Memory Tip

Think of 'morph' as relating to 'form' and 'change' — morphallaxis refers to a change in form, especially in the context of regeneration.

Visually Confused Words