Unfertilized Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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unfertilized
[ʌnˈfɜːrtɪlaɪzd ]
Definition
biological state
Unfertilized refers to an egg or ovum that has not been fertilized by sperm. In biological terms, this means that the egg remains in its unaltered state and has not undergone the changes required to begin developing into an embryo. Unfertilized eggs are common in both plants and animals, particularly in reproductive cycles.
Synonyms
ignored, non-fertilized, unimpregnated.
Examples of usage
- The unfertilized egg was discarded after the mating season.
- Birds lay unfertilized eggs that will not hatch.
- Unfertilized ova can often be preserved for future use.
- Scientists study the development of unfertilized eggs in laboratory settings.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Biology
- Eggs from female animals can be unfertilized, meaning they haven't been joined with sperm to create a baby.
- In many species, unfertilized eggs can be laid in large numbers, which helps ensure that some survive despite predators.
- Certain plants and fungi can also produce spores that are unfertilized, allowing them to reproduce asexually.
Reproductive Science
- In human reproductive terms, unfertilized refers to an egg released during ovulation that hasn't been met by sperm.
- Studies in fertility focus on the window of time when unfertilized eggs can be fertilized, typically within 24 hours after ovulation.
- Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle influence whether an egg becomes fertilized or remains unfertilized.
Cultural References
- In various cultures, the concept of unfertilized eggs has been tied to discussions of natural processes and fertility rituals.
- Art and literature often symbolize unfertilized eggs as potential life waiting for external influence to develop.
- Documentaries about wildlife migration often showcase the process of animals laying unfertilized eggs as part of their natural cycle.
Environmental Impact
- Understanding unfertilized eggs contributes to conservation efforts, especially in ecosystems maintaining animal populations.
- Aquaculture practices often assess the ratio of fertilized to unfertilized eggs to enhance breeding programs and fish population sustainability.
- Monitoring the unfertilized stages in frog populations can inform scientists about the health of aquatic environments.
Origin of 'unfertilized'
The term "unfertilized" has its roots in the prefix "un-", which denotes negation, and the word "fertilized", derived from the Latin word 'fertilizare', meaning 'to make fruitful'. Historically, the concept of fertilization comes from biological sciences where the interaction between male and female gametes is crucial for reproduction. The use of the prefix 'un-' suggests a state where the biological process has not occurred, highlighting the importance of fertilization in animal and plant reproduction. Over time, the term has been used in various scientific discussions, particularly in fields like agriculture, zoology, and reproductive biology, to describe stages of development and breeding practices.