Ecotypes

/ˈɛkoʊˌtaɪps/ noun

Definition

Plural of ecotype; multiple distinct populations of the same species each adapted to different local environments.

Etymology

Plural form of 'ecotype,' preserving the 1920s ecological concept. This allows discussion of multiple environment-specific populations within a single species.

Kelly Says

A single plant species might have dozens of ecotypes across a continent—some drought-tolerant, some flood-tolerant, some cold-hardy, all descended from the same original species but specialized for their local homes.

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