1. the state or condition of being heterozygous; the presence of two different alleles at a given gene locus in an organism.
Usage: genetics term; commonly used in population genetics and evolutionary biology

Examples

• High heterozygosity in a population indicates genetic diversity.
• The heterozygosity of the gene pool helps the species adapt to environmental changes.
• Inbreeding reduces heterozygosity and can lead to genetic problems.
• Scientists measured heterozygosity levels across different populations of the endangered species.
• Heterozygosity at multiple loci provides a buffer against harmful mutations.
• The loss of heterozygosity in isolated populations is a concern for conservation efforts.