noun
- Plural of heterosis; the increased vigor, growth, or fertility of offspring resulting from the crossing of genetically different parents.
Usage: biology; genetics; also called hybrid vigor
Examples
- The heteroses observed in the corn crop resulted from crossing two distinct inbred lines.
- Plant breeders exploit heteroses to produce crops with superior yield and disease resistance.
- The heteroses in the hybrid offspring made them noticeably larger and healthier than their parents.
- Agricultural scientists study heteroses to improve livestock breeding programs.
- Multiple heteroses can accumulate when crossing genetically diverse populations.