apomixis: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
RareTechnical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “apomixis” mean?
A type of reproduction without fertilisation where seeds develop from maternal tissue only.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A type of reproduction without fertilisation where seeds develop from maternal tissue only.
Any form of asexual reproduction in plants where seeds or embryos are produced without meiosis or fertilisation, bypassing genetic recombination.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Both follow the same technical botanical definition.
Connotations
Purely scientific with no cultural connotations in either variety.
Frequency
Equally rare in both varieties, used exclusively in academic and botanical contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “apomixis” in a Sentence
The plant reproduces through apomixis.Researchers are studying apomixis in dandelions.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “apomixis” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The apomictic trait is genetically controlled.
American English
- These plants show apomictic reproduction.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Academic
Common in plant biology and genetics research papers discussing reproductive systems.
Everyday
Never used in everyday conversation.
Technical
Standard term in botany, horticulture, and agricultural science.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “apomixis”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “apomixis”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “apomixis”
- Using 'apomixis' to describe vegetative propagation.
- Confusing apomixis with self-pollination.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Apomixis produces seeds asexually, while vegetative reproduction (e.g., runners, cuttings) produces new plants from non-seed tissues.
The term is rarely used in zoology; 'parthenogenesis' is the correct term for asexual reproduction in animals.
It could allow farmers to save and replant seeds from high-yielding hybrid crops without losing desirable traits.
It occurs naturally in over 400 plant families (e.g., dandelions, citrus, some grasses) but is not the dominant reproductive method.
A type of reproduction without fertilisation where seeds develop from maternal tissue only.
Apomixis is usually technical/scientific in register.
Apomixis: in British English it is pronounced /ˌæpəˈmɪksɪs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌæpəˈmɪksɪs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think APO (away from) + MIXIS (mixing) → reproduction without mixing genetic material.
Practice
Quiz
Which of these best describes apomixis?