Sequential hermaphroditism
Sequential hermaphroditism (pronounced: sɪˈkwɛnʃəl hɜːrməˈfrɒdɪtɪzəm) is a type of hermaphroditism that occurs in many fish, gastropods, and plants. Sequential hermaphrodites (also known as dichogamous species) can change their sex during their lifespan. The etymology of the term comes from the Greek words "hermaphroditos" (Hermaphroditus, the son of Hermes and Aphrodite who embodied both genders), and "sequential" (one after another in order).
There are two types of sequential hermaphroditism: Protogyny and Protandry. Protogyny is where an organism starts as a female and changes to a male, while Protandry is where an organism starts as a male and changes to a female.
The process of sex change in sequential hermaphrodites is usually triggered by some sort of environmental or social factor. For example, in many fish species, the change from female to male occurs when the dominant male in a group dies.
Related terms include Simultaneous hermaphroditism, where an individual has both male and female reproductive organs at the same time, and Gonochorism, where an individual remains as one sex throughout their life.
Sequential hermaphroditism is a fascinating topic in the field of Evolutionary biology, as it provides insight into the flexibility and adaptability of reproductive strategies in different species.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sequential hermaphroditism
- Wikipedia's article - Sequential hermaphroditism
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