Dictionary > Asymmetry

Asymmetry

Definition
noun
The lack or absence of symmetry
Supplement
In biology, the body plan of many organisms exhibit symmetry. Although the parts in a dividing plane or around an axis are not exactly the same, there is a significant correspondence in form, size, distribution, or arrangement of parts. Symmetry is observed particularly with regard to the external appearance of organisms. Bilateral organisms exhibit similarities between left and right sides. Radially symmetrical organisms have body plan in which every side is the same around an axis. In contrast, there are organisms lacking external symmetry and are described as asymmetrical. Some of the animals exhibiting asymmetry are flounders and hermit crabs. Adult flounders have both eyes on one side. Hermit crabs have a large claw on one side. In flowering plants, the thanksgiving cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) has irregular, asymmetrical flowers.
It should be noted though that many animals show asymmetry in their internal organs. For instance, the heart and the lungs of humans are asymmetrical. Asymmetry of many internal organs is essential for spatial arrangements.
Synonym(s):

  • dissymmetry

Compare:

  • symmetry
  • Related form(s):

    • asymmetrical (adjective, of or relating to asymmetry; lacking symmetry or proportionality)
    • asymmetry (adjective, of or relating to asymmetry; lacking symmetry or proportionality)


    You will also like...

    Nephrolepis exaltata
    Vascular Plants: Ferns and Relatives

    Ferns and their relatives are vascular plants, meaning they have xylem and phloem tissues. Because of the presence of va..

    Geological Periods
    Geological Periods

    Geological periods is a study guide that cites the different geological periods on Earth's timeline. Each has a brief ov..

    Lotic community of algal species
    Lotic Communities & Algae

    Lotic communities have conditions that are rather harsh for typical plants. Thus, the diversity of plant species in loti..

    Still freshwater and plants
    Still Freshwater & Plants

    Plants in lentic habitats have features not found in terrestrial plants. They acquired these features as they adapt to t..

    An artist depiction of a Precambrian multicellular life form.
    The Evolution of Cell Organelles

    The nucleus containing the genetic material, DNA, and the mitochondria, well-identified as the "powerhouse of the cell",..

    Freshwater Ecology
    Freshwater Ecology

    Freshwater ecology focuses on the relations of aquatic organisms to their freshwater habitats. There are two forms of co..

    Related Articles...

    No related articles found

    See all Related Topics