Ontogeny refers to the developmental history of an organism, from its inception as a fertilized egg (or single cell) to its mature form. It encompasses all the stages of growth, differentiation, and morphogenesis that an organism undergoes throughout its lifespan. It is a fundamental concept in biology, providing insights into how genetic information interacts with the environment to shape the final form and function of an organism. It's also important because sometimes evolution can reflect in development.
Ontogeny meaning with examples
- Studying the ontogeny of a butterfly, scientists observe its transformation from a larva (caterpillar) to a pupa (chrysalis) and finally to an adult butterfly. This process reveals complex gene expression patterns and environmental influences on its development.
- Comparative ontogeny helps in understanding evolutionary relationships, for example, by examining the similarities and differences in the embryonic development of vertebrates to find common ancestry, which also allows for study of atavism or the presence of ancestral genes.
- The study of human ontogeny includes the embryonic and fetal stages, infancy, childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Understanding these stages is crucial for identifying potential developmental disorders and designing appropriate interventions.
- In plants, ontogeny involves processes like seed germination, root and stem elongation, leaf formation, flowering, and fruiting. Environmental factors like light and water play significant roles in modulating these developmental stages.
- Analyzing the ontogeny of brain circuits in a developing animal model helps researchers understand how specific neural connections are formed and refined over time, in comparison to others or at the time of a specific age which can then be studied.
Ontogeny Synonyms
development embryogenesis growth lifespan development morphogenesisOntogeny Antonyms
phylogenyOntogeny Crossword Answers
6 Letters
GROWTH
7 Letters
GROWING
10 Letters
MATURATION
11 Letters
DEVELOPMENT ONTOGENESIS