What does heterogametic mean?
Heterogametic describes an organism or sex that produces two different types of gametes. The term is especially important in genetics: in a human XY sex-determination system, males are heterogametic because their sperm may carry either an X or a Y chromosome, while females are homogametic because their eggs carry an X chromosome. The same principle applies in other systems, with the heterogametic sex varying according to the species, such as females in ZW systems. The word is chiefly used in technical biological writing, particularly in genetics, cytology, and studies of sex determination. Its contrast is homogametic, which describes the production of one genetic type of gamete. Heterogametic is a useful term because it identifies a functional reproductive distinction rather than merely referring to the biological characteristics of males or females in general.
adjectiveRelating to or designating an organism or sex that produces two different types of gametes, especially X- and Y-bearing gametes. In an XY sex-determination system, the male is heterogametic, whereas the female is homogametic.
- Producing or relating to the production of two genetically different types of gametes, especially X- and Y-bearing gametes in sex determination.
"In humans, the male is heterogametic because sperm may carry either an X or a Y chromosome."
"The species has a heterogametic male that can generate either X-bearing or Y-bearing gametes."
"In birds, the female is heterogametic, producing Z-bearing and W-bearing gametes."
In an XY system, the male is heterogametic because its sperm carry either an X or a Y chromosome.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
Related word forms
How heterogametic is actually used
This is primarily a formal term in genetics and biology. Its use is specialized and most commonly appears in discussions of sex-determination systems and the production of different chromosome types in gametes.
Easily confused with heterogametic
A heterogametic organism or sex produces two genetically different types of gametes, while a homogametic one produces gametes of the same genetic type.