1. Producing two different types of gametes with respect to sex chromosomes; designating the sex that produces gametes carrying either an X or Y chromosome.
Usage: biology; genetics

Examples

• In mammals, males are heterogametic because they produce sperm carrying either an X or Y chromosome.
• The heterogametic sex determines the sex of offspring in many animal species.
• Birds have a different sex-determination system where females are heterogametic.
• Heterogametic individuals contribute to genetic variation in sex-linked traits.
• The heterogametic parent's gametes are responsible for sex determination in sexual reproduction.