xenomorphism

plural xenomorphisms

1. countableuncountableThe process or result of taking a form that reflects the surrounding environment.

   Xenomorphism in oysters remains restricted to the umbonal region of the right valve.

   1953, Raymond Cecil Moore, Curt Teichert, Treatise on Invertebrate Paleontology: Protista 2. vols. 1-2. c1964, page 95

   5 more examples

   The form of the enigma basis is inherently functional; the details and form of the locus in the Mercenaria are responsive and the juxtaposition of the Mclellania basis with the Mercenaria produces xenomorphism in both.

   1969, Smithsonian Contributions to Paleobiology - Issue 53, page 487

   The xenomorphism of sylvite is consistent with the fact that even after the complete solidification of halite this mineral must have ...

   1970, Doklady of the Academy of Sciences of the U.S.S.R.

   Without change in the percentage of the other components, there is a structural variation, that is a general xenomorphism.

   1975, E.J. Grill, Geology of Central Badakhshan and Surrounding Countries, page 200

   The importance of xenomorphism and impressions for the paleoecologist is that they reveal the presence of certain soft-bodied organisms that may have served as substrates and have been critical to the establishment of communities.

   1981, Arthur James Boucot, Robert S. Carney, Principles of Benthic Marine Paleoecology, page 102

   If an oyster is attached to a solid object, the left or lower valve will follow the contour of that object and this is called xenomorphism (Fig. 73).

   1988, D. B. Quayle, Pacific oyster culture in British Columbia - Issue 218, →ISBN, page 77