Heteroecismal

/ˌhetərɪˈɪzməl/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or characterized by heteroecism; describing parasites that require multiple host species.

Etymology

Heteroecism plus the adjectival suffix -al. A technical term found primarily in parasitology and plant pathology literature.

Kelly Says

The heteroecismal complexity of wheat rust fungi actually influenced early agricultural policy—governments had to mandate removal of barberry bushes from farming regions to break the infection cycle.

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