metagenesis

[ met-uh-jen-uh-sis ]

noun

, Biology.

1. reproduction characterized by the alternation of a sexual generation and a generation that reproduces asexually; alternation of generations.

metagenesis

/ ˌmɛtədʒɪˈnɛtɪk; ˌmɛtəˈdʒɛnɪsɪs /

noun

1. another name for alternation of generations

Derived Forms

• ˌmetageˈnetically, adverb
• metagenetic, adjective

Other Words From

• met·a·ge·net·ic [met-, uh, -j, uh, -, net, -ik], meta·genic adjective
• meta·ge·neti·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of metagenesis¹

First recorded in 1885–90; meta- + genesis

Example Sentences

There are some species which, having no hydroid or strobila state, mature without alternation of generation (metagenesis).

From Project Gutenberg

The former would thus nearly coincide with Haeckels progressive, and the latter with his retrogressive metagenesis.

From Project Gutenberg

We are therefore able to distinguish this primary metagenesis from the secondary metagenesis arising from metamorphosis.

From Project Gutenberg

The term Nurse (German Amme), employed for the asexual generations in metagenesis, may advantageously be dropped altogether.

From Project Gutenberg

In Trachylinae also the beginnings of a similar metagenesis can be found.

From Project Gutenberg