1. Producing two or more types of spores that differ in size or form, typically microspores and megaspores.
Usage: botany; biology

Examples

• Ferns and seed plants are heterosporous, producing both small and large spores.
• The heterosporous condition in plants represents an evolutionary adaptation toward sexual reproduction.
• Unlike homosporous ferns, heterosporous species generate distinct male and female spores.
• Seed plants evolved from heterosporous ancestors that produced microspores and megaspores.
• The heterosporous life cycle allows for greater specialization of reproductive structures.