Heterolateral

/ˌhɛtərəˈlætərəl/ adjective

Definition

Describing organisms or structures that are unequal or asymmetrical on opposite sides.

Etymology

From Greek hetero- (different) + Latin lateralis (relating to the side), combining to describe bilateral asymmetry. Used in biology to describe creatures that don't have mirror-image sides.

Kelly Says

Flatfish like flounder are heterolateral—both their eyes end up on one side of their head as they develop, making them lopsided in the coolest way possible!

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