Polymorphism (biology)

Polymorphism (biology)

Polymorphism in biology, pronounced /ˌpɒliˈmɔːrfɪzəm/, is a term derived from the Greek words poly meaning "many" and morphê meaning "form". It refers to the occurrence of two or more clearly different morphs or forms, also referred to as alternative phenotypes, in the population of a species.

Etymology

The term "polymorphism" originates from the Greek words poly (πολύς) meaning "many" and morphê (μορφή) meaning "form". It was first used in the context of biology in 1842 by the English naturalist Charles Darwin.

Types of Polymorphism

In biology, polymorphism can occur in various forms:

• Genetic polymorphism: This occurs when the same gene or genomic sequence is present in two or more distinct forms in a population.

• Phenotypic polymorphism: This refers to the occurrence of multiple phenotypes in a population, which can be a result of genetic differences, environmental factors, or a combination of both.

• Balanced polymorphism: This is a type of polymorphism where the frequencies of the coexisting forms are maintained by natural selection.

Related Terms

• Morphs
• Phenotypes
• Genetic polymorphism
• Phenotypic polymorphism
• Balanced polymorphism

See Also

• Genetics
• Evolution
• Natural selection
• Charles Darwin

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Polymorphism (biology)
• Wikipedia's article - Polymorphism (biology)

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