Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

heteromorphic

Adjective

/ˌhɛt.ə.rəˈmɔː.fɪk/

Definition

Heteromorphic refers to the existence of different forms of an organism or a structure within the same species or group.

Examples

The life cycle of many insects is heteromorphic, with distinct larval and adult forms.
Some plants exhibit heteromorphic flowers that attract various pollinators.
The term is also used in zoology to describe species with varied morphological features.

Meaning

This term usually applies in biology and can describe variations in appearance or function between different stages of an organism’s life cycle or between individuals.