anisogamete
/ˌænɪsoʊɡəˈmiːt/
noun
- A gamete (reproductive cell) that differs in size or form from the one it fuses with, typically referring to a smaller male gamete and a larger female gamete.
- Unlike isogametes, anisogametes show a clear size difference between male and female cells.
- The study of anisogametes helps biologists understand the evolution of sexual reproduction.
- In many algae, the anisogamete is smaller and more mobile than its partner.