What is polymorphism?

Polymorphism occurs when several different physical forms or types of individuals exist among the members of a species. Explore the definition and types of polymorphism including sexual and allelic polymorphism and discover examples found in nature. Updated: 11/02/2021

What type of polymorphism is sexual dimorphism?

Allelic polymorphism occurs when there are multiple alleles expressed within the population; alleles are different versions of a trait or physical characteristic. Sexual dimorphism is a very common form of polymorphism. It occurs in many sexually reproducing animals, such as humans, birds, deer, and insects.

What is an example of genetic polymorphism in plants?

An example of a botanical genetic polymorphism is heterostyly, in which flowers occur in different forms with different arrangements of the pistil and the stamens. The system is called heteromorphic self-incompatibility, and the general ‘strategy’ is known as herkogamy .

Is polymorphism an example of adaptive evolution?

This suggests, once again, that polymorphism is a common and important aspect of adaptive evolution in natural populations. An example of a botanical genetic polymorphism is heterostyly, in which flowers occur in different forms with different arrangements of the pistil and the stamens.