Autocoenobium

/ˌɔːtōˈsiːnoʊbiəm/ noun

Definition

In botany or mycology, a multicellular organism or colony where all cells are identical or nearly identical, versus a heteroecious system.

Etymology

From Greek 'autos' (self) plus 'coenobium' (a shared living space, from 'koinos' meaning common). The prefix indicates self-contained uniformity.

Kelly Says

Algal colonies organize themselves in fascinating ways—some have specialized cells like animals do, others are complete democracies where every cell is identical. This shows life has multiple solutions to cooperation.

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