heterofertilization

noun

het·​ero·​fertilization
"+
: double fertilization in a seed plant (as maize) that results in phenotypically and probably genotypically different endosperm and embryo
heterofertilization is considered to result when the polar nuclei and the egg fuse with male nuclei of differing genetic constitution

Word History

Etymology

heter- + fertilization

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Dictionary Entries Near heterofertilization

Cite this Entry

“Heterofertilization.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/heterofertilization. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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