paedomorphism Definition
- 1the retention of juvenile characteristics in the adult form of an organism
- 2the attainment of sexual maturity by an organism still in its larval or juvenile form
Using paedomorphism: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "paedomorphism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The axolotl is a classic example of paedomorphism, retaining its gills and fins into adulthood.
Example
Paedomorphism is a common phenomenon in domesticated animals like dogs and cats.
Example
The evolution of humans is thought to involve paedomorphism, with the retention of juvenile features like a large brain and small jaw.
paedomorphism Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for paedomorphism
- neoteny
- juvenilization
Phrases with paedomorphism
a type of paedomorphism where the adult form retains juvenile traits that are not present in the ancestral adult form
Example
The neotenic paedomorphism of salamanders has been studied extensively.
progenesis
a type of paedomorphism where sexual maturation occurs earlier in the juvenile form than in the ancestral adult form
Example
Progenesis is a common form of paedomorphism in some species of insects.
a change in the timing of developmental events during evolution, which can lead to paedomorphism
Example
Heterochrony is a key mechanism underlying the evolution of paedomorphism.
Origins of paedomorphism
from Greek 'paideia', meaning 'child-rearing' and 'morphē', meaning 'form'
Summary: paedomorphism in Brief
Paedomorphism [pee-doh-mawr-fiz-uhm] refers to the retention of juvenile traits in the adult form of an organism, or the attainment of sexual maturity by an organism still in its larval or juvenile form. Examples include the axolotl, domesticated animals, and human evolution. Paedomorphism can take different forms, such as neotenic paedomorphism, progenesis, and heterochrony.
