zygomorphic

[ zahy-guh-mawr-fik, zig-uh- ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

adjective

, Biology.

having bilateral symmetry; divisible lengthwise into similar or symmetrical halves.

zygomorphic

/ ˌzɪɡ-; ˌzaɪɡəʊˈmɔːfɪk /

See actinomorphic
(of a flower) capable of being cut in only one plane so that the two halves are mirror images See also actinomorphic

zygomorphic

/ zī′gə-môr′fĭk,zĭg′ə- /

Relating to a flower that can be divided into equal halves along only one line; bilaterally symmetrical. The flowers of the iris and the snapdragon are zygomorphic.
Compare actinomorphic

First recorded in 1870–75; zygo- + -morphic

When a flower can be divided by a single plane into two exactly similar parts; then it is said to be zygomorphic.

The flowers are always more or less bilaterally symmetrical (zygomorphic).

In Pelargonium the flower is zygomorphic with a spurred posterior sepal and the petals differing in size or shape.

April 19, 2024tortuous

[tawr-choo-uhs ]

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