The word “atokous” may not be a familiar term for many people. It is a word that is often used in scientific and biological contexts. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of “atokous.”
Definitions
Atokous refers to organisms that reproduce asexually, without the need for fertilization. These organisms produce offspring that are genetically identical to themselves. Atokous reproduction occurs in various species of plants, animals, and microorganisms.
Origin
The term “atokous” is derived from the Greek words “a-” meaning “without,” and “tokos” meaning “offspring” or “birth.” The word was first used in the scientific literature in the 19th century to describe asexual reproduction in certain species of insects.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The term “atokous” is not commonly found in general dictionaries. However, it is defined in scientific and technical dictionaries as referring to asexual reproduction.
Associations
Atokous reproduction is associated with several advantages and disadvantages. One advantage is that it allows organisms to reproduce quickly and efficiently without the need for a mate. However, asexual reproduction can also lead to a lack of genetic diversity, making the organisms more vulnerable to disease and environmental changes.
Synonyms
There are several synonyms for atokous, including “asexual reproduction,” “vegetative reproduction,” and “cloning.”
Antonyms
The antonym of atokous is “sexual reproduction,” which involves the fusion of gametes from two parents to produce genetically diverse offspring.
The same root words
The root word “tokos” is also found in other scientific terms, such as “parthenogenesis” (reproduction without fertilization) and “heterotrophic” (obtaining nutrients from other organisms).
Example Sentences
- The bacteria in this culture reproduce atokously, producing identical copies of themselves.
- Some plants can reproduce atokously by sending out runners or producing bulbs.
- Atokous reproduction is common in certain species of insects, such as aphids and mites.