gonochorism

English

Unlike most flatworms, schistosomes are gonochoristic. The narrow female can be seen emerging from the thicker male's gynecophoral canal below his ventral sucker.

Noun

gonochorism (uncountable)

1. (biology) The situation in which the individuals of a species are of one of at least two distinct sexes, and retain that sexuality throughout their lives.

Usage notes

This term is mainly used of species in the animal kingdom. The corresponding term for the plants is dioecy.

Related terms

• gonochoric
• gonochorist
• gonochoristic