Heteromorphism

/ˌhɛtərəˈmɔrfɪzəm/ noun

Definition

The condition or phenomenon of occurring in different forms or shapes within a species or group.

Etymology

From Greek 'hetero-' (different) and 'morph' (form) with '-ism' suffix, describing the biological principle of variable forms.

Kelly Says

Heteromorphism in plants is survival strategy—having different leaf shapes at different heights helps plants function better in changing light conditions as they grow.

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