Achlorophyllous is a term that is not commonly used in everyday conversation, but it has a specific meaning in the scientific community. It refers to organisms that lack chlorophyll, the pigment that is essential for photosynthesis. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of achlorophyllous, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
Achlorophyllous is an adjective that describes organisms that do not have chlorophyll. This includes fungi, some bacteria, and certain parasitic plants that obtain their nutrients from other plants. These organisms are unable to produce their own food through photosynthesis and must rely on other sources for sustenance.
Origin
The word achlorophyllous comes from the Greek words “a-” meaning “without” and “chloros” meaning “green.” The term was first used in the 19th century to describe plants that lacked chlorophyll.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to Merriam-Webster, achlorophyllous means “lacking chlorophyll.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “not containing chlorophyll, or not capable of producing chlorophyll.”
Associations
Achlorophyllous organisms are often associated with parasitism, as many of them rely on other plants for their nutrients. Fungi and bacteria that lack chlorophyll are also important decomposers in ecosystems, breaking down dead organic matter and returning nutrients to the soil.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for achlorophyllous include non-photosynthetic, heterotrophic, and mycoheterotrophic (referring specifically to plants that obtain their nutrients from fungi).
Antonyms
The antonyms of achlorophyllous are chlorophyllous, photosynthetic, and autotrophic (referring to organisms that produce their own food through photosynthesis).
The same root words
Other words that use the same root words as achlorophyllous include achromatic (without color), apolitical (without politics), and asexual (without sexual reproduction).
Example Sentences
- The fungus growing on the dead tree was achlorophyllous and relied on the decaying wood for nutrients.
- The parasitic plant was achlorophyllous and obtained its nutrients from the host plant.
- The bacteria in the soil were non-photosynthetic and broke down organic matter for energy.