Author
Home > Science > What is the Difference Between Neoteny and Paedogenesis?

Guilherme Mazui

•3 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between Neoteny and Paedogenesis?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

The difference between neoteny and paedogenesis lies in the process of development and reproduction in organisms:

  • Neoteny: This is the process of delaying the physiological development of an organism. In neoteny, adults retain traits that were previously seen only in juveniles. It is also referred to as juvenilization or paedomorphosis.
  • Paedogenesis: Also known as progenesis, paedogenesis is the reproduction by an organism that has not achieved physical maturity. This process involves the capability of reproduction at the larval or juvenile stage.

In summary:

  • Neoteny is the retention of juvenile traits by adults, delaying the physiological development of an organism.
  • Paedogenesis is the reproduction by an organism that has not achieved physical maturity, involving the capability of reproduction at the larval or juvenile stage.
On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Neoteny and Paedogenesis?
  • Comparative Table: Neoteny vs Paedogenesis

    • Comparative Table: Neoteny vs Paedogenesis

    The difference between neoteny and paedogenesis can be summarized in the following table:

    Characteristic Neoteny Paedogenesis
    Definition The process of delaying the physiological development of an organism. The process of reproduction by an organism that has not achieved physical maturity.
    Type of Heterochrony This is a type of paedomorphosis, which results in the retention of traits by an adult that were previously seen in the young. This is a specific type of paedomorphosis where sexual development is accelerated.
    Occurrence Mainly occurs in animals. Seen in amphibians, insects, certain beetles, strepsiptera, bagworms, and gall midges.
    Sexual Development Undergoes fertilization. Undergoes parthenogenesis.
    Importance A type of paedomorphism. Important in developmental biology.

    Neoteny and paedogenesis are two ways that promote paedomorphism in an organism, a subject in the field of developmental biology. Both processes involve sexual development, but they differ in the type of development and the stage at which sexual maturity is reached.

    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.