Heterogametic

/ˌhɛtərəɡəˈmɛtɪk/ adjective

Definition

Relating to an organism that produces two different types of gametes, typically determining offspring sex.

Etymology

From heterogamete plus -ic (adjective suffix). A genetics term describing organisms where one parent determines the sex of offspring through different sperm or pollen types.

Kelly Says

Male birds and mammals are heterogametic, but female birds are—it's the opposite system, which is why bird species have totally different sex-determination genetics than mammals!

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