Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

clinal

Adjective

/ˈklaɪnəl/

Definition

Relating to or denoting a gradual change in characteristics along a geographic gradient.

Examples

The clinal variation in the plant species was evident as one moved from the coast inland.
Researchers noted that the clinal differences in the bird’s beak size were related to the availability of food sources in different regions.
In studying the population, the scientists focused on clinal trends to understand adaptation to environmental changes.

Meaning

The term ‘clinal’ is used to describe a situation where there is a gradual change in a particular trait or characteristic in a species across a geographic range. It often refers to variations seen in biological species closely related in their habitats, indicating that traits change depending on the location.