Hermaphrodite and dioecious are terms describing the sexual characteristics of organisms, particularly plants.
Hermaphrodite
A hermaphrodite is an individual organism that possesses both male and female reproductive organs. According to the provided reference, an "individual which possesses both male and female reproductive organs is called hermaphrodite." This means a single organism can produce both sperm and eggs.
- Example: Earthworms are a common example of hermaphroditic animals. Many plant species also exhibit hermaphroditism, with a single flower containing both stamens (male parts) and pistils (female parts).
Dioecious
Dioecious describes a species in which male and female reproductive organs are found on separate individuals. In dioecious plants, some individuals will only produce male flowers (containing stamens), while others will only produce female flowers (containing pistils).
- Example: Holly trees are dioecious; some holly trees are male and produce pollen, while others are female and produce berries (after pollination by a male).
Summary Table
| Feature | Hermaphrodite | Dioecious |
|---|---|---|
| Reproductive Organs | Both male and female on one individual | Male and female on separate individuals |
| Individuals | Single individual with both sexes | Two distinct sexes within the species |
| Reference | Provided Reference | Provided Reference (Implied by definition) |
