Ecospecies

/ˌɛkoʊˈspiːʃiːz/ noun

Definition

A group of organisms that look different and live in different environments but can still interbreed and produce fertile offspring, showing they're really the same species.

Etymology

From 'eco-' (environment) and 'species.' This taxonomic term emerged in 20th-century ecology as scientists realized that physical appearance and environment couldn't always determine whether organisms were truly separate species.

Kelly Says

An ecospecies proves that what you look like and where you live don't always tell you who your relatives are—some creatures might look completely different but are actually the same species, just adapted to different homes.

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