heterogenesis Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun the alternation of two or more different forms in the life cycle of a plant or animal
alternation of generations; xenogenesis.

Hetero- + genesis.

(Biol.) Spontaneous generation, so called.
(Biol.) That method of reproduction in which the successive generations differ from each other, the parent organism producing offspring different in habit and structure from itself, the original form, however, reappearing after one or more generations; -- opposed to homogenesis, or gamogenesis.