Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
autotomy
Noun
/ɔːˈtɒt.ə.mi/
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Definition
Autotomy refers to the ability of certain animals to deliberately shed a part of their body, typically as a defense mechanism against predators.
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Examples
- Some lizards are known to exhibit autotomy when they lose their tail to escape a predator.
- Autotomy can be advantageous as it distracts the attacker, allowing the animal a chance to flee.
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Meaning
The term combines ‘auto’ meaning self and ‘tomy’ meaning cutting, indicating self-amputation.
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Synonyms
- Self-amputation
- Self-detachment