BIOLOGY DICTIONARY

For high school students

Following the SCERT grading
curriculum

RONIYA VARGHESE

Published by
H.M.TRAINING COLLEGE,
RANDARKARA,MUVATTUPUZHA
PIN: 696673
EMAIL: [email protected]
PREFACE
This book is an excellent resource that can have a big impact on your
academic career in the field of biology.
You can learn more about living things by using this book. Biology
is not only fascinating, but it is also essential for your academic
development and future chances.
This book's main objective is to make difficult biological ideas clear
and approachable.
Inside, you'll find concise definitions for a variety of concepts, from
the most fundamental to the most sophisticated, as well as visual aids
to help you understand intricate structures and procedures.
My earnest wish is that this biology dictionary proves to be a useful
tool for you in your academic endeavors and strives to earn your
trust.
Any constructive criticism and ideas that will help me improve are
warmly welcome.
Sincerely,
RONIYA VARGHESE
DICTIONARY OF
BIOLOGY
 Aa

ABSCISIC ACID: It is the plant hormone, which is responsible for

dormancy of seeds and inhibition of seeds. It stimulates the closure of
stomata, inhibit shoot growth, stimulate the storage of proteins in seeds.

ACROMEGALY: Acromegaly is a rare condition where the body

produces too much growth hormone, leading to the abnormal growth
of bones and tissues, especially in the hands, feet, and face.

ACTH: ACTH stands for Adrenocorticotropic Hormone. It's a

hormone produced by the pituitary gland that tells the adrenal glands
to release another hormone called cortisol. Cortisol helps the body
respond to stress.
AEROPONICS: In aeroponics, plants are gown in such a way that
their roots grow in to air and nutrients are sprayed directly, on roots.

AIDS: Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a chronic,

potentially life-threatening condition caused by the human
immunodeficiency virus (HIV). By damaging your immune
system, HIV interferes with your body's ability to fight infection and
disease. HIV is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). It can also be
spread by contact with infected blood and sharing needles. It can
also be spread from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth or
breastfeeding.

ALDOSTERONE: Aldosterone is a hormone produced by the

adrenal glands. It helps regulate the balance of salt and water in the
body, which is important for maintaining blood pressure.
ALEXANDER FLEMING: Alexander Fleming was a scientist
who discovered the first antibiotic, penicillin, in 1928. His discovery
revolutionized medicine and has saved countless lives.

ALVEOLI: Alveoli are the tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas
exchange takes place. They are located at the end of the bronchioles,
the smallest branches of the airways.

ALZHEIMER'S: Alzheimer's is a disease that affects the brain and

causes problems with memory, thinking, and behaviour. It's a type
of dementia that often occurs in older adults.

AMEOEBA: Amoeba are single-celled eukaryotes that are found in

a variety of habitats, including freshwater, saltwater, soil. They are
characterized by their ability to change shape, which they do by
extending and retracting pseudopods.

ANAEMIA: Anaemia is a condition caused either by reduction in

the number of red blood corpuscles in blood or by the deficiency of
haemoglobin, the pigment in red blood corpuscles. When anaemic,
blood loses its capacity to carry oxygen, and the person feels weak
and exhausted. It also causes loss of memory and concentration as
anaemia affects brain’s efficiency.

ANTERIOR LOBE OF PITUITARY: The anterior lobe of the

pituitary gland is a small part of the brain that releases hormones.
These hormones control other glands in the body and regulate things
like growth and metabolism.
ANTIBIOTICS: Antibiotics are medicines that can kill or stop the
growth of bacteria. They are used to treat bacterial infections in
humans and animals.

AORTA: The aorta is the largest artery in the body. It carries

oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. The aorta
begins at the left ventricle of the heart and ascends through the chest,
where it arches over the heart and descends through the abdomen.

APICULTURE: It is the scientific method of rearing honeybees.

“The word 'apiculture' comes from the Latin word 'apis' meaning
bee. So, apiculture or beekeeping is the care and management of
honey bees for the production of honey and wax. Honey is a
product of medicinal and nutritional value. Varieties of honey bees
like Kolan, Mellifera, Njodiyan etc., are reared commonly.

AQUEOUS HUMOR: Aqueous humor is a clear, watery fluid in

the front part of the eye. It helps maintain the eye's shape and
nourishes the lens and cornea.

ARISTOTLE: Aristotle is known as the father of zoology. Zoology

is a branch of biology that deals with animals' life, evolution,
anatomy, physiology, and behaviour. An axon is like a long, thin
wire-like part of a nerve Axon: An axon is like a long, thin wire-like
part of a nerve cell that carries messages from the cell body to other
nerve cells or muscles. It's like a communication cable for the cell.
ARTIFICIAL PHEROMONES: Artificial pheromones are
human-made chemicals that mimic natural pheromones.
Pheromones are substances that animals and insects use to
communicate with each other, often to signal things like attraction
or danger.

ATHLETE'S FOOT: Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection

of the skin on the feet. It can cause itching, peeling, and redness. It's
often seen in athletes who sweat a lot in their shoes.
AUDITORY CANAL: The auditory canal is the tube-like structure
in your ear that sound travels through to reach your eardrum. It's like
a pathway for sound to enter your ear.

AUXINS: Auxins are potent growth hormones naturally produced

by plants. They are primarily located in the tips of both shoots and
roots and are responsible for stimulating cell division, promoting the
elongation of stems and roots, and influencing the orientation of
plant growth in response to external factors like light and gravity.
Auxins essentially guide the plant's growth by encouraging cells to
divide more actively on one side, allowing the plant to adapt and
optimize its structure in relation to its surroundings.
AXONITE: Branches of axon. It carries impulses to the synaptic
knob.

Bb

BARK: Bark is the tough, outer protective layer of a tree or plant

stem. It helps shield the plant from damage and harsh environmental
conditions.
BASE PAIR: A base pair is a unit of DNA or RNA that consists of
two complementary nitrogenous bases linked together by hydrogen
bonds. The four nitrogenous bases in DNA are adenine (A), guanine
(G), cytosine (C), and thymine (T). In RNA, the base uracil (U)
replaces thymine.

BASOPHIL: A basophil is a type of white blood cell in your body's

immune system. It helps fight infections and plays a role in allergic
reactions.
BILE: Bile is a greenish-yellow fluid produced by the liver and
stored in the gallbladder. It helps with digestion by breaking down
fats in the small intestine.

BINARY FISSION: Binary fission is a type of asexual

reproduction in which a single cell divides into two identical
daughter cells. It is the most common form of reproduction in single-
celled organisms, such as bacteria.

BINOCULAR VISION: Binocular vision is when both of your

eyes work together to create a single, 3D image. This helps with
depth perception and judging distances.
BINOMIAL NOMENCLATURE: The system of binomial
nomenclature was introduced by Carl Linnaeus. “Binomial
nomenclature is the biological system of naming the organisms in
which the name is composed of two terms, where, the first term
indicates the genus and the second term indicates the species of the
organism.”
BIOCHEMISTRY: Biochemistry is the branch of science that
studies the chemical processes and substances that occur within
living organisms. It's all about understanding the chemistry of life.
BIODEGRADABLE: Biodegradable refers to materials that can
break down naturally in the environment over time. They don't
persist as long-lasting pollutants and are better for the planet.
BIODIVERSITY: Biodiversity is the number and variety of plants,
animals and other organisms that are living in an ecosystem.
Biodiversity is a measure of the variety of organisms that exist in
different ecosystems. Bio means 'life', diversity means 'variety'.
BIOGENESIS: Biogenesis is the scientific principle that living
organisms can only come from other living organisms. It's the
opposite of the idea of spontaneous generation, where life
supposedly arose from non-living matter.
BIOLOGICAL CLOCK: A biological clock is like an internal
timer in your body that regulates various processes, like sleep-wake
cycles, hormone release, and aging. It helps your body know when
to do certain things at certain times.
BIOMASS: Biomass is organic matter, like plants and wood, that
can be used as a source of renewable energy when burned or
converted into biofuels.

BIOMEMBRANE: This covering separates the cell from its

adjacent cells. Not only the cell, but the nucleus and many of the cell
organelles also have membranous covering. These bio membranes
regulate the exchange of materials between cells and between cell
organelles and cytoplasm. These membranes are called selectively
permeable membranes as they allow only the essential materials.

BIOSPHERE: The biosphere is the part of Earth where life exists.

It is made up of all the living things on Earth, as well as the non-
living things that they interact with, such as air, water, and soil.
BIOTECHNOLOGY: Biotechnology involves using biological
processes, organisms, or systems to create useful products or solve
problems. It can include things like genetic engineering and medical
advancements.
BLASTULA: A blastula is an early stage in the development of an
embryo. It's a hollow ball of cells that forms after fertilization.
Gastrulation, where the blastula undergoes significant changes in
cellular arrangement and forms the three primary germ layers:
ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm.

BLIND SPOT: A blind spot is an area of the visual field that cannot
be seen because the optic nerve passes through it. The optic nerve is
the bundle of nerves that carries visual information from the retina
to the brain. It is located at the back of the eye, where the optic disc
is.

BLOOD CELLS: Also called a hematopoietic cell, is a cell

produced through haematopoiesis and found mainly in the blood.
There are three main type of blood cells: red blood
cells(erythrocytes), White blood cells(leukocytes) and
Platelets(thrombocytes)
B-LYMPHOCYTES: B-lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell
that helps your immune system by producing antibodies. These
antibodies help your body recognize and fight off harmful invaders
like bacteria and viruses.

BONE CELLS: Bones consists of four types of cells: osteoblasts,

osteoclasts, osteocytes, and osteogenic cells. Each type has a unique
function and is found in different locations in bones.
BONE MARROW: Bone marrow is the soft, spongy tissue found
in the cavities of bones. It's responsible for producing blood cells,
including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
BRONCHITIS: Bronchitis is a condition where the bronchial tubes
in your lungs become inflamed. It can cause coughing, difficulty
breathing, and mucus production.
BRONCHOLE: The terminal branches of bronchi that open to the
alveoli. There are no cartilaginous rings in the bronchioles.

BUCCAL CAVITY: The buccal cavity is another term for the

inside of your mouth. It includes your cheeks, tongue, and other oral
structures.

Cc

CATARACT: A cataract is a clouding of the eye's natural lens,

causing vision problems, like blurriness and glare.
CELL BIOLOGY: Study of cell is an extensive branch of science;
it is known as cell biology.
CELL DIFFERENTIATION: Our body is developed from a
single cell called zygote. The zygote undergoes continuous divisions
and forms the foetus consisting cells of different shape, size and
content. Foetal cells gradually attain change in structure and
function. This process is known as cell differentiation.

CELL THEORY: The cell theory was formulated by M.J Schleiden

and Theodor Schwann summarizing the findings of various
scientists. It puts forward two main concepts -The body of all
organisms is made up of cells, Cells are the structural and functional
units of organisms.
CELLS: Cells are the basic units of life, and hence are often referred
to as the “building blocks of life”.
CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM: The central nervous system is
the main control center of the body, consisting of the brain and
spinalcord. It helps process information, control body functions, and
coordinate responses to stimli.

CENTROSOME: Centrosome is the cell organelle that is found

only in animal cells. The centrioles that play a major role in cell
division are seen in the centrosome.
CEREBELLUM: The cerebellum is a brain region that coordinates
voluntary muscle movements, balance, and posture.

CEREBRUM: The cerebrum is the largest part of the brain

responsible for thinking, memory, emotions, and conscious
movement.
CESOPITHECOIDAE: The Cercopithecidae is a family of Old-
World monkeys, including baboons and macaques, known for their
diverse species and social behaviors
CHLOROPLAST: It is a kind of plastids that are found in plant
cells. Photosynthesis takes place in chloroplast. It occurs not only in
leaves, but in regions wherever chloroplast is present. Pigments that
absorb sunlight are found in the grana of chloroplast.

CHOROID: The choroid is a layer of the eye that supplies blood to

the retina and helps maintain eye health.
CHROMATIN RETICULUM: They are seen as a network in the
nucleoplasm. They carry genes.

CHROMOPLAST: It is a kind of plastids that are found in plant

cells. Chromoplasts impart color to flowers and fruits. Xanthophyll
(yellow), carotene (yellowish orange), anthocyanin (red, purple)
etc., are certain pigments in the chromoplasts. As fruits ripen,
chloroplasts change to chromoplasts. Starch is converted to sugar.
This is the secret behind the change in the color and taste of fruits.
CILIARY MUSCLES: Ciliary muscles are tiny muscles in the eye
that change the shape of the lens to help focus on objects at different
distances.
CIRCULAR MUSCLES: Circular muscles are muscles that
contract in a circular motion, like the ones in your eye's iris that
control pupil size.
COCHLEA: The cochlea is a spiral-shaped, inner ear structure
responsible for hearing and converting sound vibrations into
electrical signals for the brain.

COLD RECEPTOR: Cold receptors are sensory nerve endings that

detect cold temperatures on the skin and other tissues.
COLLENCHYMA: composed of cells that are thick only at the
corners of the cell wall. Provides flexibility and support to plant
parts.
COMPOUND MICROSCOPE: Microscopes in which more than
one lens is used are called compound microscopes.

CONDENSER: Condenser is used to collect and focus the light

from the illuminator on the specimen. It is located under the stage
often in conjunction with iris diaphragm. Diaphragm, a part of the
condenser, helps to regulate the intensity of light.
CONE CELLS: Cone cells are specialized cells in the retina that
allow you to see colors and fine details.
CONJUNCTIVA: The conjunctiva is a thin, clear membrane
covering the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the
eyelids.
CONJUNCTIVITIS (PINK EYE):Conjunctivitis, also known as
pink eye, is an eye infection or inflammation characterized by
redness, itching, and discharge.
CONNECTIVE TISSUE: Either connects different tissues or acts
as a support to them. Bone, cartilage, fibrous tissue, blood etc., are
various connective tissues. As the name suggests, connective tissues
bind other tissues together. Tendons that connect muscles to the
bones, ligaments that connect bones together and fibrous tissues that
hold the eyes and kidneys in the proper place are examples for
connective tissues.

CORNEA: The cornea is the transparent outer layer of the eye that
helps focus light onto the retina.
CORTISOL: Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands
that helps the body manage stress, control blood sugar levels, and
regulate metabolism.
CRETINISM: Cretinism is a condition caused by severe iodine
deficiency during early childhood, leading to intellectual and
developmental disabilities.
CULEX: Culex is a genus of mosquitoes that includes species
known for transmitting diseases like West Nile virus.
CUNICULTURE: Scientific way of rearing of rabbits. Varieties
like Grey giant, White giant etc., are reared for meat. Ankora is
reared for fur.
CYTOPLASM: Cytoplasm is the part of the protoplasm excluding
the nucleus. All factors required for life activities are present in the
cytoplasm. Cell organelles are the specific parts seen in the
cytoplasm to perform physiological functions.

Dd

DANDRUFF: Dandruff is a common scalp condition characterized

by the flaking of dead skin cells from the scalp. It often causes
itching and is usually not a serious medical issue.
DARWINISM: Darwinism refers to the theory of evolution
proposed by Charles Darwin. It explains how species evolve over
time through natural selection, adaptation, and the survival of the
fittest.
DECOMPOSER: A decomposer is an organism that decomposes,
or breaks down, organic material such as the remains of dead
organisms. Decomposers include bacteria and fungi. These
organisms carry out the process of decomposition, which all living
organisms undergo after death. Decomposition is an important
process because it allows organic material to be recycled in an
ecosystem.
DEFENSE MECHANISM: Defense mechanisms are
psychological strategies people use unconsciously to cope with
anxiety, stress, or emotional conflicts. Examples include denial,
repression, and projection.
DENDRON:A dendron, also known as a dendrite, is a branch-like
extension of a nerve cell (neuron) that receives and transmits
electrical signals to and from other neurons.

DIABETES: Diabetes is a chronic medical condition characterized

by high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood. It can result from
insufficient insulin production (Type 1) or the body's inability to use
insulin effectively (Type 2).
DIAPHRAGM: Dome-shaped, muscular and membranous
structure that separates the thoracic (chest) and abdominal cavities
in mammals; it is the principal muscle of respiration.
DIFFUSION: Diffusion is the movement of molecules from a
region of higher concentration to a region of lower concentration
down the concentration gradient.
DIGESTIVE ENZYME: Digestive enzymes convert the food into
smaller molecules that our tissues, cells, and organs utilize for many
metabolic functions. Amylase is defined as a digestive enzyme that
breaks starch into small carbohydrate molecules. Protease breaks
down protein into amino acids, which are its building blocks. Lipase
breaks down dietary fats into smaller molecules known as glycerol
and fatty acids.
DIPHTHERIA: Diphtheria is a bacterial infection that can affect
the respiratory system and lead to a thick gray membrane in the
throat, causing difficulty breathing and other serious symptoms if
left untreated.
DNA:DNA is a group of molecules that is responsible for carrying
and transmitting the hereditary materials or the genetic instructions
from parents to offspring.

DODO: Extinct species. Dodo, a kind of flightless bird, was

common in the island of Mauritius.

DOMINANT TRAIT: A dominant trait is a genetic characteristic

that is expressed when an individual has one or two dominant alleles
for that trait. It masks the expression of recessive traits in a
heterozygous individual.
DORSAL ROOT: The dorsal root is part of the spinal nerve that
carries sensory information, such as touch and pain signals, from the
body to the spinal cord.

DUODENUM: The duodenum is the first part of the small intestine.

It is located between the stomach and the middle part of the small
intestine, or jejunum. After foods mix with stomach acid, they move
into the duodenum, where they mix with bile from the gallbladder
and digestive juices from the pancreas.
DWARFISM: Dwarfism is a medical condition characterized by
significantly shorter stature than average due to genetic or medical
factors that inhibit normal growth.

Ee

EAR OSSICLES: Ear ossicles are the three tiny bones in the middle
ear-malleus ,incus, and stapes that transmit sound vibrations from
the eardrum to the inner ear.

ECOSYSTEM: an ecosystem is a chain of interactions between

organisms and their environment. The term “Ecosystem” was first
coined by A.G. Tansley, an English botanist, in 1935.
EDWARD JENNER: Edward Jenner was an English physician and
scientist who is best known for developing the smallpox vaccine, a
pioneering achievement in the history of immunization.
EMPHYSEMA: Alveoli rupture due to the loss of elasticity, by the
deposition of toxic substances contained in tobacco. This reduces
the respiratory surface and reduces vital capacity.
ENDOCRINE GLANDS: Endocrine glands are specialized organs
that produce hormones and release them directly into the
bloodstream. Examples include the thyroid gland and adrenal
glands.
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM: The endocrine system is a collection of
glands that secrete hormones into the bloodstream to regulate
various bodily functions, including growth, metabolism, and
reproduction.
ENDOLYMPH: Endolymph is a fluid found in the inner ear's
labyrinthine structures, specifically in the cochlea and semicircular
canals. It plays a crucial role in hearing and balance.
ENDOPLASMIC RETICULUM: The passage in the cell.
Conduction of materials inside the cell takes place through this
organelle. Also known as cytoskeleton as it provides firmness and
shape to the cell.

ENERGY CURRENCIES: Availability of energy must be ensured

for continuous metabolic activities in the cells. ATP (Adenosine
triphosphate) molecule is used for the continuous transfer of energy.
The energy liberated during the break down of ATP into ADP
(Adenosine diphosphate) and phosphate is used for the metabolic
activities.
ENZYME: A substance that acts as a catalyst in living organisms,
regulating the rate at which chemical reactions proceed without
itself being altered in the process.
EOSINOPHIL: Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell involved
in the immune response. They are particularly active in dealing with
allergies and parasitic infections.

EPIGLOTTIS: It is a leaf-shaped flap in the throat that prevents

food and water from entering the trachea and the lungs. It stays open
during breathing, allowing air into the larynx. During swallowing, it
closes to prevent aspiration of food into the lungs, forcing the
swallowed liquids or food to go along the oesophagus toward the
stomach instead. It is thus the valve that diverts passage to either the
trachea or the oesophagus.
EPILEPSY: Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by
recurrent seizures, which are sudden, uncontrolled electrical
disturbances in the brain that can lead to various symptoms.
EPINEPHRINE (ADRENALINE):Epinephrine, also known as
adrenaline, is a hormone and neurotransmitter that plays a crucial
role in the "fight or flight" response, increasing heart rate, dilating
airways, and preparing the body for quick action.
ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS: About 20 different elements are
required for the proper growth of plants. They are known as essential
elements. Carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus,
potassium, Sulphur etc., are examples of essential elements. These
elements are made naturally available in the soil through
decomposition by microorganisms.
ESTROGEN: Estrogen is a group of sex hormones primarily
responsible for the development of female secondary sexual
characteristics and regulating the menstrual cycle.
ETHYLENE: Ethylene is a colorless gas that is important in the
ripening of fruits and as a plant hormone that regulates various
growth and developmental processes.
EUGLENA: A green single-celled freshwater organism with
locomotory structure called flagellum. These are long whip-like
protein filaments.
EUKARYOTE: Eukaryotes are organisms whose cells have a
nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. They are the most
complex and diverse type of organism, and include animals, plants,
fungi, and protists.
EUSTACHIAN TUBE (AUDITORY TUBE): The Eustachian
tube is a narrow passage that connects the middle ear to the back of
the throat. It helps regulate pressure in the middle ear and is
important for hearing and balance.
EXTERNAL EAR: The external ear is the visible part of the ear,
including the earlobe and the ear canal. It helps collect sound waves
and funnel them to the middle ear.
EYE PIECE: Eye piece lens at the top that you look through,
usually 10x or 15x power.
EYE SOCKET (ORBIT): The eye socket, also known as the orbit,
is the bony cavity in the skull that houses the eye and its associated
structures.
EYE SPOT: An eye spot is a simple light-sensitive organ found in
some lower organisms. It can detect changes in light intensity but
does not form images.

Ff

F1 GENERATION: The F1 generation, or first filial generation, is

the result of crossing two parental organisms (P generation) to
produce offspring with a combination of their traits. It's often used
in genetics experiments to study inheritance patterns.
FATTY LIVER: Fatty liver, also known as hepatic steatosis, is a
condition where excess fat accumulates in the liver cells. It can result
from various factors, including alcohol consumption and metabolic
disorders.
FAUNA: The animals which live naturally in a particular area are
called fauna of that area.
FERMENTATION: Fermentation is an anaerobic process in which
energy can be released from glucose even if oxygen is not available.
Fermentation occurs in yeast cells and bacteria and also in the
muscles of animals. It is an anaerobic pathway in which glucose is
broken down.
FERTILITY: “Soil fertility refers to the ability of the soil to sustain
plant growth.” Fertile soil results in high yield and better quality of
plants. Fertile soil is rich in fundamental elements and minerals, has
good aeration, water holding capacity, and good texture.
FERTILIZER: A fertilizer is a chemical substance that contains
necessary nutrients such as nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorous to
make the soil fertile. Popular examples of fertilizers are urea, potash,
and ammonium sulphate.

FIBRIN FIBERS: Fibrin fibers are long, thread-like structures

formed from fibrinogen during the blood clotting process. They
create a mesh that traps blood cells to form a clot.
FIBRINOGEN: Fibrinogen is a protein found in blood plasma that
plays a crucial role in blood clotting. It is converted into fibrin during
the clotting process.
FILARIAL WORMS: Filarial worms are a group of parasitic
worms that cause diseases such as filariasis. They are transmitted to
humans through mosquito vectors and can infect the lymphatic
system and cause swelling and damage.
FILARIASIS: Filariasis is a tropical disease caused by parasitic
worms called filarial worms. These worms are transmitted to
humans through mosquito bites and can lead to severe health
problem.
FIRST AID: First aid refers to the initial assistance or medical care
provided to a person who has been injured or suddenly becomes ill.
It aims to stabilize the person's condition until professional medical
help arrives.
FLORA: The plants that grow naturally in a particular area are
called flora of that area.
FLORICULTURE: Cultivation of flowering plants on a
commercial basis. Jasmine, Marigold, Chrysanthemum, Rose,
Orchid, Anthurium etc., are flowers of commercial demand.

FOOD CHAIN: A food chain refers to the order of events in an

ecosystem, where one living organism eats another organism, and
later that organism is consumed by another larger organism. The
flow of nutrients and energy from one organism to another at
different trophic levels forms a food chain.
FOOD SECURITY: Food security is the situation that ensures
sufficient food for everyone to lead a healthy life . It is necessary to
ensure food security for a better and healthy society where there is
no poverty or health issues due to lack of nutrition.
FORENSIC TEST: Forensic tests are scientific procedures used in
criminal investigations to analyze evidence, such as DNA,
fingerprints, and physical materials, to determine facts related to a
crime or legal case.
FOSSIL: Fossils are the remains or traces of ancient life that have
been preserved by natural processes. Examples of fossil include
shells, bones, stone imprints of animals or microbes, exoskeletons,
objects preserved in amber, petrified wood, coal, hair, oil, and DNA
remnants.
FUNGUS: A group of spore producing organisms(eukaryote)
feeding on organic matter, including moulds, yeast, mushrooms.

Gg

GAMETE: A gamete is a reproductive cell of an animal or plant. In

animals, female gametes are called ova or egg cells, and male
gametes are called sperm.
GENE THERAPY: Gene therapy is a medical approach that
involves altering or replacing faulty genes with healthy ones to treat
genetic disorders or other medical conditions.
GENE: A gene is a segment of DNA that contains the instructions
for building a specific protein or performing a particular function in
an organism's body.
GENERATIVE NUCLEUS: Pollen grain contains two nuclei such
as generative nucleus and tube nucleus. The generative nucleus
divides in the pollen tube to form two male gametes and the tube
nucleus disintegrates.

GENETIC DISEASE:A genetic disease is a medical condition

caused by abnormalities or mutations in an individual's DNA or
genes. These diseases can be hereditary and passed down from one
generation to the next.
GENETIC ENGINEERING: Genetic engineering is a
biotechnology technique that involves manipulating the DNA of
organisms to introduce new traits or modify existing ones. It has
applications in agriculture, medicine, and various industries.
GENETICS: Genetics is defined as the branch of biology that deals
with the study of genetic variation genes, and heredity. Gregor
Mendel is considered the Father of Genetics.
GERMINATION: Germination is the process of seeds developing
into new plants.

GH (GROWTH HORMONE): Growth hormone (GH), also

known as somatotropin, is a peptide hormone produced by the
anterior pituitary gland in the brain. It plays a crucial role in
regulating growth, metabolism, and various physiological processes
in the human body.
GIBBERELLIN: Gibberellin is a plant hormone that regulates
various growth and developmental processes, including stem
elongation and seed germination
GIBBERLINS: Gibberellins are plant hormones that regulate
various developmental processes, including stem elongation,
germination, dormancy, flowering, flower development, and leaf
and fruit senescence.
GIBBON: A gibbon is a type of small to medium-sized ape known
for its agility and swinging behavior in trees. They are part of the
family Hylobatidae and are found in Asia.
GIGANTISM: Gigantism is a rare medical condition characterized
by excessive growth and height due to an overproduction of growth
hormone (GH) during childhood and adolescence.

GLANDULAR CELL: A glandular cell is a type of cell that

specializes in the production and secretion of specific substances,
such as hormones or digestive enzymes, into the bloodstream or a
body cavity.
GLAUCOMA: Glaucoma is an eye condition characterized by
increased intraocular pressure, which can damage the optic nerve
and lead to vision loss if left untreated.

GLYCOGEN: Glycogen is a complex carbohydrate made up of

glucose molecules linked together. It serves as a short-term energy
storage molecule in animals, primarily in the liver and muscles.
GLYCOLYSIS: The first phase in cellular respiration. Glucose is
converted to pyruvic acid. 2 ATP molecules are produced. This
process occurs in the cytoplasm. It does not require oxygen.
GOITER: A goiter is an enlarged thyroid gland, often caused by
iodine deficiency, thyroid disorders, or other underlying medical
conditions.

GOLGI COMPLEX: Collects cell secretions like enzymes,

hormones, mucous etc., in small vesicles. Seen in plenty in glandular
cells.
GREGOR JOHANN MENDEL: Gregor Johann Mendel was an
Austrian scientist and friar known as the father of modern genetics.
His experiments with pea plants in the mid-19th century laid the
foundation for understanding the principles of inheritance.

GREY MATTER: Grey matter is a type of neural tissue found in

the brain and spinal cord. It contains the cell bodies of neurons and
is involved in processing information and forming connections.
Growth hormone is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that
plays a crucial role in growth, cell regeneration, and overall body
development.
GTH (GONADOTROPIC HORMONE):Gonadotropic hormones
are hormones produced by the pituitary gland that regulate the
function of the gonads (testes in males and ovaries in females).
Examples include FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and LH
(luteinizing hormone).

Hh

HABITAT: Habitat refers to the place or the location where an

organism (or a biological population) lives, or exists.
HAEMOPHILIA: Hemophilia is a genetic bleeding disorder in
which the blood does not clot properly. It is caused by a deficiency
of specific blood clotting factors and can result in prolonged
bleeding after injury.
HALDANE: J.B.S. Haldane was a British geneticist and
evolutionary biologist known for his contributions to population
genetics and evolutionary theory.
HEAMODIALYSIS: It is the process of purifying blood by passing
it through artificial kidney, when the kidneys become nonfunctional.

HEAMOGLOBIN: Haemoglobin is a protein found in red blood

cells. It is responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the
tissues and carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs.
Haemoglobin is made up of four protein chains, each of which is
attached to a heme group. The heme group is a molecule that
contains iron. The iron in the heme group binds to oxygen, allowing
haemoglobin to carry oxygen.

HEPARIN: Blood with high quantity of waste materials is passed

into the dialysis unit. Heparin is added to prevent clotting of blood.
HEPATITIS: Hepatitis is the inflammation of the liver, often
caused by viral infections (hepatitis A, B, C, etc.) or other factors
such as alcohol abuse or autoimmune diseases.
HOMINOIDEA: Hominoidea is a superfamily of primates that
includes humans, great apes (such as chimpanzees, gorillas, and
orangutans), and lesser apes (such as gibbons and siamangs).
HOMO SAPIENS: Homo sapiens is the scientific name for modern
humans. It refers to the species of primates to which all humans
belong.
HORMONE-RECEPTORCOMPLEX:Hormone-receptor
complex is formed when a hormone binds to a specific receptor on
the surface of a cell or within the cell. This complex triggers a
cellular response, often regulating gene expression.

HORMONES: Hormones are chemical messengers produced by

glands in the endocrine system. They travel through the bloodstream
to target organs and tissues, where they regulate various
physiological processes.
HORTICULTURE: Scientific cultivation of fruits and vegetables.
Horticulture is the science and art of the development, sustainable
production, marketing and use of high-value, intensively cultivated
food and ornamental plants. Horticultural crops are diverse,
including: Annual and perennial species, Fruits and vegetables,
Decorative indoor plants etc.
HOST: In biology, a host is an organism that harbors and provides
a habitat for another organism, typically a parasite. The parasite
benefits from the host, sometimes to the detriment of the host.
HUGO DE VRIES: The mutation Theory of Evolution was
proposed by Hugo de Vries.
HUMAN GENOME PROJECT: The Human Genome Project was
a collaborative scientific effort that aimed to map and sequence all
the genes in the human genome. It was completed in 2003 and has
since had a significant impact on genetics and medicine.
HYDATHODES: In certain grasses and shrubs, excess water is
eliminated through small pores present at the tip of leaves called
hydathodes.

HYDROPONICS: In Hydroponics, plants are grown in nutrient

solution.
HYPERTHYROIDISM: Hyperthyroidism is a medical condition
where the thyroid gland produces an excessive amount of thyroid
hormones. It can lead to symptoms such as weight loss, rapid
heartbeat, and anxiety.
HYPOTHALAMUS: The hypothalamus is a small region in the
brain that plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions,
including body temperature, hunger, thirst, and the release of
hormones from the pituitary gland.

HYPOTHYROIDISM: Hypothyroidism is a medical condition

where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones.
It can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and cold
sensitivity.

Ii

IMMUNE SYSTEM: The immune system is a complex network of

cells, tissues, and organs that work together to protect the body from
foreign invaders, such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
IMMUNITY: Immunity is the ability of the body to defend itself
against disease-causing organisms. Our body has the ability to
release antibodies against these pathogens and protects the body
against diseases. This defence mechanism is called immunity.
IMMUNOGLOBULIN: Immunoglobulins, also known as
antibodies, are proteins produced by the immune system to
recognize and neutralize foreign invaders such as bacteria, viruses,
and other pathogens.
IMPULSE: An impulse is a brief electrical signal or wave of action
potential that travels along a nerve cell (neuron) to transmit
information within the nervous system.
INCISOR: Incisors are easily visible on the front side of the mouth.
They are 8 in number. Incisors are the teeth that are used for cutting,
biting and shearing.

INCUBATION PERIOD: The incubation period is the time

between exposure to a disease-causing agent (e.g., a virus or
bacteria) and the onset of symptoms of the disease.
INCUS: The incus, also known as the anvil, is one of the three tiny
bones in the middle ear (ossicles) that transmit sound vibrations
from the eardrum to the inner ear.
INDUCER: An inducer is a molecule or substance that triggers a
specific biological response or gene expression in an organism.
INFERIOR VENACAVA: The inferior vena cava is a large vein
that carries the deoxygenated blood from the lower and middle body
into the right atrium of the heart.
INFLAMATION: The immune system's response to harmful
stimuli, such as pathogens, damaged cells, toxic compounds, or
irradiation. It is a protective response that helps the body to remove
the harmful stimulus and repair the damaged tissue.
INFLAMMATORY RESPONSE: The inflammatory response is a
natural defense mechanism of the body against injury or infection.
It involves processes like redness, swelling, and the release of
immune cells and molecules to repair damaged tissue and fight
pathogens.
INHERITANCE: Inheritance refers to the process of transmission
of genes from parent to offspring.

INORGANIC: Inorganic refers to substances or compounds that do

not contain carbon-hydrogen (C-H) bonds and are typically not
derived from living organisms. Examples include minerals and
metals.
INSECTA: Insecta is a class of arthropods that includes insects.
Insects are characterized by their six-legged body structure and
segmented bodies.
INSPIRATION: Inspiration, in the context of respiration, is the
process of inhaling air into the lungs. It involves the contraction of
the diaphragm and expansion of the ribcage to create a negative
pressure, allowing air to enter the respiratory system.

INSULIN: Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that

regulates blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose
from the bloodstream into cells, where it can be used for energy.
INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT: The basic principle of
Integrated Pest Management is not the destruction of pests totally.
Instead, it tries to prevent the multiplication of pests and to limit
their number without loss of crop. This ecofriendly method ensures
pest control without disturbing the environment. This is done by
reducing the use of chemical pesticides and encouraging the
application of biopesticides, natural enemies of pests ,mechanical
pest control etc.
INTERCALARY MERISTEM: Intercalary meristem is a type of
plant tissue located at the base of leaves or internodes. It allows for
continued growth and regeneration in certain plant species.
INTERCELLULAR SPACE: The intercellular space is the space
between cells. It is bordered by the outer membranes of cells.
INTERNAL EAR (INNER EAR): The internal ear, or inner ear, is
the part of the ear responsible for hearing and balance. It contains
structures like the cochlea and the semicircular canals.
INTERNEURON: An interneuron, also known as a relay neuron or
intermediate neuron, is a nerve cell that connects sensory and motor
neurons within the central nervous system. It helps relay information
between these neurons.
INTRON: An intron is a non-coding segment of DNA within a gene
that does not contain information for making a protein. During gene
expression, introns are removed from the messenger RNA (mRNA)
molecule.

INVERTEBRATE: An invertebrate refers to any of the animals

lacking a vertebral column.
IODOPSIN: Iodopsin is a light-sensitive protein found in the cone
cells of the retina. It plays a crucial role in color vision and photopic
(daylight) vision.
IRIS: The iris is the colored part of the eye that surrounds the pupil.
It regulates the amount of light entering the eye by adjusting the size
of the pupil.
ISLETS OF LANGERHANS: The islets of Langerhans are
clusters of cells in the pancreas that contain hormone-producing
cells, including beta cells that secrete insulin and alpha cells that
secrete glucagon, both of which play critical roles in regulating
blood sugar levels
ISOTONIC SOLUTION: An isotonic solution is a liquid that has
the same concentration of solutes (e.g., salt or sugar) as another
solution, resulting in no net movement of water across cell
membranes.
IUCN: (International Union for Conservation of Nature) IUCN is a
Switzerland based independent organization working for the
protection of biodiversity.

Jj

JACOBSON’S ORGAN:Jacobson's organ, also known as the

vomeronasal organ, is a specialized sensory structure found in some
animals, including reptiles and mammals. It is involved in detecting
pheromones and chemical signals related to social and reproductive
behaviors.
JAMES D WATSON: He is best known for co-discovering the
double helix structure of DNA in 1953 with Francis Crick.
JAUNDICE: Jaundice is a condition produced when excess
amounts of bilirubin circulating in the blood stream causing a
yellowish appearance of the skin and the whites of the eyes.
JAW:A jaw is a bone structure in the skull of vertebrates, including
humans, that contains the teeth and plays a crucial role in activities
like chewing, biting, and speaking.
JELLYFISH: Jellyfish are marine animals that belong to the
phylum Cnidaria. They are characterized by their gelatinous,
umbrella-shaped bodies and stinging tentacles, which they use to
capture prey.
JOINT:A joint is the point where two or more bones meet in the
body. Joints allow for movement and come in various types, such as
hinge joints (like the elbow) and ball-and-socket joints (like the hip).

Kk

KARYOKINESIS: Karyokinesis is the process of cell division that

involves the division of the cell nucleus, specifically during mitosis
or meiosis. It results in the separation of chromosomes into daughter
cells.
KWASHIORKOR: Kwashiorkor is a severe form of malnutrition,
especially in children, caused by a deficiency of protein in the diet.
It is characterized by symptoms such as swelling, weight loss, and
muscle wasting.

KIDNEY CALICES :Kidney calices (calyces) are small cup-like

structures in the kidney that collect urine produced by the nephrons.
They serve as a pathway for urine to flow into the renal pelvis and
eventually into the ureter.
KIDNEY: Kidneys are the main organs in the human excretory
system, The most important function of the kidney is to filter the
blood for urine formation. It excretes metabolic wastes like urea and
uric into the urine.
KINETOCHORE:A kinetochore is a protein structure found on the
centromere of a chromosome. It plays a critical role in cell division
(mitosis and meiosis) by connecting the chromosome to spindle
fibers, ensuring proper chromosome segregation.

KINGDOM: kingdom is the second highest taxonomic rank, just

below domain.
KNEE: The knee is a complex joint in the human body that connects
the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia). It allows for various
types of movement, such as flexion and extension, and is essential
for activities like walking and running.
KNOBS: Knobs are used to focus the microscope.
KREBS CYCLE: The second phase in cellular respiration is that
which occurs in the mitochondria. Through a series of chemical
changes pyruvic acid is converted to carbon dioxide and water. 28
ATP molecules are produced. It requires oxygen.

Ll

LABYRINTH: The labyrinth, in the context of the human ear, is a

complex structure in the inner ear responsible for both hearing and
balance. It consists of the cochlea (for hearing) and the vestibular
system (for balance).
LACTATION: Lactation is the process of milk secretion from the
mammary glands of a mother soon after childbirth.
LACTEAL: Lacteals are present in the small intestine. The mucosa
of the small intestine consists of a large number of finger-like
projections called villi. Each villus is lined by columnar epithelium.
Underneath the epithelial layer, a lymphatic vessel called lacteal is
present that opens up to the lymphatic system.

LACTOSE :Lactose is a sugar found in milk and dairy products. It

requires the enzyme lactase for proper digestion, and some
individuals may be lactose intolerant, meaning they have difficulty
digesting lactose.
LAMARCK(JEAN-BAPTISTELAMARCK):Jean-Baptiste
Lamarck was a French naturalist known for his early work in
evolutionary theory. He proposed the theory of inheritance of
acquired characteristics, which was later replaced by Charles
Darwin's theory of natural selection.
LAMARCKISM: Lamarckism is the term used to describe Jean-
Baptiste Lamarck's now-discredited theory of evolution, which
suggested that organisms could acquire new traits during their
lifetimes and pass them on to their offspring
LARVA:A larva is the immature, juvenile form of an organism that
undergoes metamorphosis before becoming an adult. Larvae often
have different characteristics and habits than the adult form.
LAW OF DOMINANCE: The Law of Dominance is one of Gregor
Mendel's principles of inheritance. It states that in a heterozygous
organism (having two different alleles for a trait), the dominant
allele will determine the phenotype, while the recessive allele is
masked.
LAW OF INDEPENDENT ASSORTMENT: The Law of
Independent Assortment, also proposed by Mendel, states that the
alleles of different genes assort independently of each other during
gamete formation. This means that the inheritance of one trait does
not influence the inheritance of another trait
LAW OF SEGREGATION: The Law of Segregation is another of
Mendel's principles, which states that during gamete formation, the
two alleles for each gene segregate (separate) from each other, so
each gamete carries only one allele for a given trait.
LENTICEL: A lenticel is a porous tissue comprising cells with
huge intercellular spaces. They are found in the periderm of
secondarily thickened structures, the bark of woody stems, and the
roots of dicotyledonous flowering plants. It acts as a pore, allowing
direct gas exchange between internal tissues and the atmosphere via
the bark, which is otherwise impervious to gases. Lenticels enhance
oxygen, carbon dioxide, and water vapor exchange in plant bodies
that induce secondary growth.

LEPTOSPIRA: Leptospira is a type of bacteria that can cause

leptospirosis, a disease that affects both humans and animals. It is
typically transmitted through contact with contaminated water or
soil.
LEPTOSPIROSIS: Leptospirosis is an infectious disease caused
by the Leptospira bacteria, sometime called as rat fever . It can lead
to a wide range of symptoms, including fever, muscle pain, and
kidney or liver damage.

LETHARGY: Lethargy is a state of physical and mental

sluggishness or listlessness. It is characterized by a lack of energy,
motivation, and interest in activities. People who are lethargic may
feel tired all the time, even after getting a good night's sleep. They
may also have difficulty concentrating, making decisions, and
completing tasks.

LEUCOPLAST: These are a type of plastids that are composed of

a range of colourless organelles with various functions such as
storage as seen in roots, tubers, or seeds. The basic function of
leucoplast is the storage of essential compounds such as starch,
lipids, and proteins.
LEUKOCYTE: Leukocytes, also known as white blood cells, are
cells of the immune system that help the body defend against
infections and foreign substances. There are several different types
of white blood cells.

LIFE CYCLE: A life cycle is the sequence of biological changes

that occurs as an organism develops from an egg into an adult until
its death
LIGAND:A ligand is a molecule or ion that binds to a receptor,
often on the surface of a cell, to initiate a specific cellular response
or signaling pathway.
LIGASE: Ligase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in DNA
replication and repair by joining together DNA fragments or sealing
nicks and gaps in the DNA strand.
LIVE STOCK MANAGEMENT: Rearing cattle for milk, meat
and agricultural purposes.
LOBULE:A lobule is a small, distinct section or compartment
within an organ, often used to describe the structural units of organs
like the liver and mammary glands.
LOCOMOTION: Locomotion refers to the ability of an organism
to move from one place to another, often used in the context of
animal or human movement.
LYMPH NODES: Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped organs
that are part of the lymphatic system. Their main function is to filter
lymph fluid, which is a clear fluid that carries white blood cells and
other immune cells throughout the body.
LYMPH: Lymph is a colorless fluid containing specialized
lymphocytes responsible for the body’s immune responses. Lymph
also transports nutrition, hormones, and other substances. In the
lacteals of the intestinal villi, fats are absorbed by lymph.
LYMPHATIC SYSTEM: A vast network of lymphatic vessels,
lymph nodes, lymphatic or lymphoid organs, and lymphoid tissues
make up the lymphatic system. One of its main functions is to collect
excess lymph fluid from human tissues and return it to the blood
stream. The other main function is that of immune defense.
LYMPHOCYTE: Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell that
plays a key role in the immune system. There are two main types: B
cells, which produce antibodies, and T cells, which help coordinate
immune responses.
LYMPHOKINES :Lymphokines are signaling molecules produced
by lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) that play a role in
regulating immune responses.
LYSOSOME: Lysosome contains the digestive enzymes that are
required for the destruction of foreign substances entering the cell.
It is seen in animal cells.
LYSOZYME: Lysozyme is an enzyme found in tears, saliva, and
other bodily fluids that helps protect against bacterial infections by
breaking down the cell walls of certain bacteria.

Mm

M.J SCHLEIDEN: He found out that the body of a plant is made

up of cells in 1838.

MAGNIFICATION POWER: The magnification power of

objective lenses is marked as 10x and 45x. Such markings can be
seen in eye piece too. The magnification power of a microscope is
the result of multiplying the numbers seen in the objective lens and
eye piece
MALARIA: Malaria is a life threatening mosquito-borne blood
disease. The Anopheles mosquito transmits a parasite known as
plasmodium to humans.It leads to symptoms like fever, chills, and
fatigue and can be severe or fatal if not treated promptly.

MALLEUS (HAMMER): The malleus, also known as the hammer,

is one of the three small bones in the middle ear. It transmits sound
vibrations from the eardrum to the incus (anvil) and stapes (stirrup).
MEDICINAL PLANT CULTIVATION: The Indian system of
medicine ‘Ayurveda’ exists completely depending on medicinal
plants. The popularity of Ayurveda and the destruction of natural
ecosystems have raised the importance of medicinal plant
cultivation. Basil, Aloe, Neem, Adathoda, Sida (Kurunthotti),
Vettivera (Ramacham), Aegle marmelos (Koovalam), Plumbago
(Koduveli) etc., can be grown in crop fields.
MEDULLA OBLONGATA :The medulla oblongata is the
lowermost part of the brainstem that connects the brain to the spinal
cord. It controls essential functions such as breathing, heartbeat, and
blood pressure.

MEIOSIS: Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the number

of chromosomes in a cell by half. It is a process that occurs in
sexually reproducing organisms to produce gametes, such as sperm
and eggs.
MERISTAMATIC TISSUE: Meristematic cells are specific cells
seen at the tip of the stem and the root in plants. They undergo rapid
division and this results in the growth of plants.

MICROBIAL FERTILIZERS: Microbial fertilizers are biological

preparations that contain living microorganisms, such as bacteria,
fungi, and algae. These microorganisms help to improve soil health
by fixing nitrogen, solubilizing phosphorus, and suppressing plant
diseases
MIDDLE EAR: The middle ear is the part of the ear located
between the eardrum (tympanic membrane) and the inner ear. It
contains three small bones (ossicles) called the malleus, incus, and
stapes, which transmit sound vibrations from the eardrum to the
inner ear.
MITOCHONDRION: A mitochondrion is a small, oval-shaped
organelle found in the cytoplasm of cells. It is considered the
"powerhouse" of the cell because it produces adenosine triphosphate
(ATP), the cell's main source of energy.

MOLECULAR BIOLOGY: Molecular biology is a branch of

biology that focuses on the study of the molecular processes and
mechanisms that occur within living organisms. It often involves the
study of DNA, RNA, and proteins to understand genetic
information, gene expression, and cellular functions at the molecular
level.
MOTOR IMPULSE:A motor impulse is an electrical signal
generated in the nervous system that travels along motor neurons to
stimulate muscles, resulting in voluntary or involuntary muscle
contractions and movement.
MOTOR NEURON:A motor neuron is a nerve cell that carries
signals from the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) to
muscles or glands, controlling voluntary and involuntary muscle
movements.
MUSCLE CELLS: Commonly known as myocytes, are the cells
that make up muscle tissue.
MUSCULAR TISSUE: Muscular tissue is one of the four main
types of tissue in the body, along with epithelial, connective, and
nervous tissue. It is responsible for the movement of the body and
for maintaining posture. There are three types of muscular tissue.
Skeletal muscle, smooth muscle and cardiac muscle.

MUSHROOM CULTURE: Scientific way of growing mushroom.

Mushroom is a nutritious and tasty food item. Button mushroom
(Palkoon), Oyster mushroom (Chippikoon) etc., are commonly
cultivated mushroom varieties.
MYXEDEMA: Myxedema is a medical condition resulting from
severe and prolonged hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland).
It is characterized by symptoms such as puffiness of the skin,
fatigue, and slow metabolism.
 Nn

NATURAL ENEMIES: Natural enemies are organisms that prey

on or compete with other organisms. They can be animals, plants, or
even other microorganisms.
NEPHRIDIA: Nephridia are excretory organs found in many
invertebrates. In earthworms, nephridia are found in every segment
of the body. They are responsible for removing nitrogenous wastes,
such as ammonia and urea and also help to regulate the water
balance of the body.
NEPHRON: A nephron is the functional unit of the kidney. It is
responsible for filtering the blood, removing waste products, and
producing urine. Each kidney contains about 1 million nephrons.
NERVE CELLS: A nerve cell, also known as a neuron, is the basic
unit of the nervous system. Neurons are responsible for transmitting
information throughout the body.

NERVOUS TISSUE: Nervous tissue is one of the four main types

of tissue in the body, along with epithelial, connective, and muscular
tissue. It is responsible for sending and receiving signals throughout
the body. It controls and coordinates physiological functions.
NEUTROPHIL: Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that
plays a critical role in the immune system's response to infections.
They are among the first immune cells to arrive at the site of
infection and help destroy bacteria and other pathogens.
NICOTINE: Nicotine is a highly addictive chemical found in
tobacco products, including cigarettes and smokeless tobacco. It acts
as a stimulant and can have harmful effects on health, including an
increased risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer.
NIGHT BLINDNESS: Night blindness, also known as nyctalopia,
is a condition in which a person has difficulty seeing in low-light
conditions or at night. It can be caused by various factors, including
vitamin A deficiency or certain eye conditions.
NOREPINEPHRINE (NORADRENALINE): Norepinephrine,
also known as noradrenaline, is a neurotransmitter and hormone
produced by the adrenal glands and certain nerve cells. It plays a role
in the "fight or flight" response, increasing heart rate and blood
pressure.
NUCLEAR MEMBRANE: It is a double layered membrane that
covers the nucleus.
NUCLEAR PORE: Nuclear pores are pores in the nuclear
membrane. They help in the conduction of materials to and from the
nucleus.

NUCLEOLUS: They are spherical bodies, that play a major role in

the synthesis of ribosomes.
NUCLEOPLASM: It is the fluid part of the nucleus. Nucleolus and
chromatin reticulum are seen here.
NUCLEUS: Nucleus is the regulatory centre of the cell.The
synthesis of proteins is under the control of genes in the chromatin
reticulum in the nucleus. Hence the nucleus is considered as the
regulatory centre of the cell.
 Oo

OBJECTIVE LENSES: objective lenses are the primary optical

lenses on a microscope. It is responsible for gathering light from the
object and focusing it onto the image plane.

OESOPHAGUS: The oesophagus is a muscular tube that connects

the mouth to the stomach. It is about 25 centimetres long in adults.
The oesophagus is responsible for transporting food from the mouth
to the stomach.
OLFACTORY RECEPTOR: Olfactory receptors are specialized
sensory receptors located in the nasal passages that detect and
respond to odors. These receptors play a crucial role in the sense of
smell.
OLIGODENDROCYTES: Oligodendrocytes are a type of glial
cell found in the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the
brain and spinal cord. They are responsible for producing myelin, a
fatty substance that wraps around nerve fibers and acts as an
insulating sheath, allowing for faster and more efficient electrical
signal transmission in the nervous system.
OMMATIDIUM: An ommatidium is the unit of a compound eye,
the type of eye found in arthropods such as insects, crustaceans, and
millipedes. Each ommatidium is a small, independent eye that is
responsible for detecting light.
OMNIVORE: An omnivore is an animal that eats both plants and
animals. They typically have sharp teeth for tearing meat and flat
teeth for grinding plants.
ONCOLOGY: Oncology is the branch of medicine that deals with
the study, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer. The goal of oncology
is to cure cancer or to control it so that it does not spread or cause
symptoms.
OPARIN (ALEXANDER IVANOVICH OPARIN):Alexander
Ivanovich Oparin was a Soviet biochemist known for his hypothesis
on the origin of life on Earth through chemical evolution. His ideas
laid the groundwork for the study of abiogenesis, which explores
how life may have emerged from non-living matter.
OPIUM: Opium is a drug that is derived from the poppy plant. It is
a white, milky substance that is extracted from the seed pods of the
poppy plant. Opium contains many different chemicals, including
morphine, codeine, and thebaine.
OPSIN: Opsins are a family of proteins found in the retina of the
eye. They are essential for the detection of light and are involved in
the initial stages of visual signal transduction.
OPTIC NERVE: The optic nerve is a bundle of nerve fibres that
carries visual information from the retina of the eye to the brain. It
is the second cranial nerve, and is also known as the II nerve.
ORANGUTAN: The orangutan is a large species of great ape native
to Indonesia and Malaysia. It is known for its distinctive reddish-
brown fur, long arms, and arboreal lifestyle. Orangutans are one of
the closest living relatives to humans.
OVAL WINDOW: The oval window is a membrane-covered
opening between the middle ear and the inner ear. It is located in the
bony structure of the skull and plays a vital role in transmitting
sound vibrations from the middle ear to the fluid-filled cochlea in
the inner ear.

OVARY: An ovary is a female reproductive organ that Produces

ovum and female hormones. Ovaries are located in the pelvis, one
on each side of the uterus. They are about the size and shape of
almonds.
OVUM: An ovum, also known as an egg, is the female reproductive
cell. It is produced in the ovaries and is released during ovulation.
The ovum is a single cell that contains all the genetic information
necessary to create a new organism.
OXYHEAMOGLOBIN: Oxyhaemoglobin is a complex molecule
that is formed when oxygen binds to haemoglobin. haemoglobin is
a protein that is found in red blood cells. It is responsible for carrying
oxygen from the lungs to the tissues of the body.
OXYTOCIN: Oxytocin is a hormone produced by the
hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland. It plays a key role
in various physiological processes, including uterine contractions
during childbirth and milk ejection during breastfeeding. Oxytocin
is also involved in social bonding and emotional responses.

Pp

PAIN RECEPTOR:A pain receptor, or nociceptor, is a sensory

receptor that responds to potentially damaging stimuli, such as
extreme heat, cold, or tissue injury. Activation of nociceptors results
in the perception of pain.
PAPILLA: Papillae are small, raised structures on the tongue's
surface that contain taste buds and help with the sense of taste.
PARANCHYMA: composed of cells with the simplest structure.
Seen in the soft parts of the plant. Helps in photosynthesis and the
storage of food.

PARASYMPATHETIC SYSTEM :The parasympathetic nervous

system is one of the two divisions of the autonomic nervous system
(ANS). It is responsible for the body's "rest and digest" responses,
promoting activities like slowing the heart rate and enhancing
digestion.
PARKINSON'S DISEASE :Parkinson's disease is a
neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement control. It is
characterized by symptoms such as tremors, muscle rigidity, and
difficulty with balance and coordination.
PARTURITION: Parturition, also known as childbirth, is the
process of delivering a baby.
PERIPHERAL NERVOUS SYSTEM: The peripheral nervous
system (PNS) is the part of the nervous system outside the brain and
spinal cord. It includes sensory and motor neurons that connect the
central nervous system to the rest of the body, allowing for
communication and control of bodily functions.
PERISTALSIS: The wave like movement of the walls of the
esophagus. These movements are called peristalsis. The strong
peristalsis in the stomach converts food into a paste form.

PHEROMONES: Pheromones are chemical substances that are

produced by an animal and released into the environment.
Pheromones are used by animals to attract mates. For example, the
female silkworm moth releases a pheromone that attracts male
silkworm moths.
PHLOEM: Composed of tubular inter-connected cells. Transports
food synthesized in the leaves to various parts of the plant body. The
different elements of phloem include sieve tubes, companion cells,
and phloem parenchyma and phloem fibres. Sieve tubes which
transport sugars and nutrients up and down the plants in sieve cells.
Companion cells controls the activity of sieve tube. Phloem
parenchyma provides mechanical strength to the plant. Phloem
fibres stores compound such as starch.

PHOTORECEPTORS: Photoreceptors are specialized cells in the

retina of the eye that detect light and allow us to perceive visual
information. Two main types of photoreceptors are rods (for low-
light vision) and cones (for color vision).
PHYSIOLOGY :Physiology is the scientific study of how living
organisms function and how their various organs and systems work
together to maintain life processes. It covers a wide range of topics
related to bodily functions.
PHYTOPLANKTON: Phytoplankton are microscopic,
photosynthetic organisms (mostly algae and some bacteria) found in
aquatic environments. They form the base of the food chain and play
a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems by producing oxygen and
serving as a food source for aquatic organisms.

PISCI CULTURE: The scientific way of rearing fish in natural

water bodies, paddy fields or artificial tanks, is pisciculture.
Varieties such as Pearl spot, Rohu, Catla etc., are reared for food and
Gold fish, Guppy etc., are reared for ornamental purposes. Important
prawn varieties reared are Naran, Kara etc.
PLACENTA: The placenta is an organ that develops in the uterus
during pregnancy. It is attached to the wall of the uterus and to the
foetus by the umbilical cord. The placenta provides the foetus with
oxygen and nutrients from the mother's blood, and removes waste
products from the foetus’s blood.
PLASMODIUM: Plasmodium is a genus of parasitic protozoa that
causes malaria in humans. The life cycle of Plasmodium involves
transmission by mosquitoes and infection of red blood cells in the
host.
PLASTIDS: Plastids are the cell organelles that are exclusively
found in plant cells. They are of three kinds namely chromoplast,
chloroplast and leucoplast. photosynthesis is performed by
chloroplast. Chromoplasts impart color to flowers and fruits.
Leucoplasts are plastids having no specific color. Leucoplasts are
seen in plenty in the cells where food materials are stored.
POLYHOUSE FARMING: Polyhouse is a special kind of
arrangement in which a crop field is completely or partially covered
by transparent polyethene sheets. Since the temperature and
moisture in the polyhouse is constantly regulated, growth of plants
becomes rapid. Nutrients are dissolved in water and are supplied on
plants through drip irrigation. Pest infestation will also be less
because the sides of the polyhouse are covered with net. Although
the expense is high in the beginning, crop yield is many times greater
than that of the regular field.

PORTAL VEIN: The portal vein is a major blood vessel that carries
nutrient-rich blood from the digestive organs (such as the stomach
and intestines) to the liver, where nutrients are processed and stored.
POSTERIOR LOBE OF PITUITARY :The posterior lobe of the
pituitary gland (neurohypophysis) is one of the two main parts of the
pituitary gland. It stores and releases hormones produced by the
hypothalamus, such as oxytocin and vasopressin, into the
bloodstream
POULTRY FARMING: Rearing birds for egg and meat.
Importance birds including chicken, turkey, geese, and ducks are
frequently raised as poultry.
PRECISION FARMING: In this method of farming, the nature of
soil, quantity of elements in the soil, pH value of soil, presence of
water etc., in the crop field are tested using modern technology, and
appropriate crops are selected for cultivation. By covering the soil
using polythene sheet, we can effectively control weeds and also
limit irrigation.

PRESSURE RECEPTOR:A pressure receptor, also known as a

mechanoreceptor, is a sensory receptor that responds to mechanical
stimuli, such as pressure or touch. These receptors are found
throughout the body and help us perceive tactile sensations.

PROGESTERONE: Progesterone is a female sex hormone

produced mainly by the ovaries after ovulation. It plays a crucial role
in regulating the menstrual cycle and preparing the uterus for
pregnancy.
PROTOPLASM: All substances inside the cell membrane
constitute the protoplasm.

PROTOZOA : Protozoa are a diverse group of microscopic, single-

celled organisms belonging to the kingdom Protista. They are found
in various aquatic and terrestrial habitats and can be free-living or
parasitic.
PUPIL: The pupil is the black circular opening in the center of the
eye's iris. It regulates the amount of light entering the eye by
adjusting its size in response to changes in lighting conditions.

Qq

QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS: Quantitative analysis is a branch

of analytical chemistry that focuses on determining the amount or
concentration of a specific substance (analyte) in a sample. It
involves precise measurements and may use various techniques and
instruments to obtain numerical results.
QUATERNARY STRUCTURE: Quaternary structure refers to
the three-dimensional arrangement of multiple protein subunits
(polypeptide chains) in a complex, multi-subunit protein. It
describes the interactions and arrangement of these subunits to form
a functional protein complex. Quaternary structure is one of the
levels of protein structure, with the others being primary, secondary,
and tertiary.
QUEEN BEE: A queen bee is the reproductive female of a bee
colony. She is the only bee in the hive that can lay eggs. The queen
bee is larger than the other bees in the hive and has a longer
abdomen.
QUIESCENT CENTRE: A quiescent centre is a region of cells in
the root apical meristem of plants that divide very slowly or not at
all. The quiescent centre is located at the centre of the root apical
meristem, and it is surrounded by the initials, which are the cells that
divide to form new cells.

QUINONE:A quinone is a class of organic compounds that contain

a six-membered carbon ring with two carbonyl groups (C=O) on
adjacent carbon atoms. Quinones play important roles in biological
processes and can be found in various natural products.

Rr

RADIAL MUSCLES: Radial muscles are muscles that run along a

radial or outward direction, typically from a central point. These
muscles play a role in various functions, such as extending or
straightening body parts.
REABSORPTION: Reabsorption is the process by which
substances are moved from the filtrate in the kidney tubules back
into the bloodstream. It is an essential part of urine formation.
RECESSIVE TRAIT: A recessive trait is a genetic trait that is
expressed or observed only when an individual carries two copies of
the recessive allele (one from each parent). It is masked or not
expressed when a dominant allele is present.
RELATED MUSCLE:A related muscle refers to a muscle that is
functionally associated with another muscle, often working together
to produce coordinated movements or actions.
REPRODUCTION: Reproduction is the process by which
organisms produce offspring. It is essential for the survival of
species.
RESIDUAL VOLUME: Residual volume (RV) is the volume of
air that remains in the lungs after a maximal exhalation. It is the
smallest lung volume that can be achieved.
RECEPTOR:A receptor is a specialized structure, often a protein,
located on the surface of a cell or within the cell. It binds to specific
signaling molecules (ligands) and plays a role in transmitting signals
and responses within the cell.

RESPIRATION: Respiration is the process by which organisms

exchange gases with their environment. In plants, respiration takes
place in the leaves and other green parts of the plant. The leaves have
tiny pores called stomata that allow gases to pass in and out of the
plant. In animals, respiration takes place in the lungs. The lungs are
organs that allow oxygen to enter the bloodstream and carbon
dioxide to exit the bloodstream.

RETINA: The retina is a light-sensitive layer of tissue located at

the back of the eye. It contains specialized cells called
photoreceptors (rods and cones) that convert light into electrical
signals, which are then sent to the brain to create visual perception.
RETINAL: Retinal, also known as retinaldehyde, is a form of
vitamin A that plays a crucial role in the visual cycle within the
retina. It is a component of rhodopsin, a pigment found in rod cells
that helps detect light.

RH FACTOR: The Rh factor, also known as the Rhesus factor,

is a protein found on the surface of red blood cells. The presence or
absence of this protein determines an individual's Rh blood type
(Rh-positive or Rh-negative). Rh factor is important in blood
transfusions and during pregnancy to prevent Rh incompatibility
issues.

RIBOSOME: Centre of protein synthesis in the cell. Seen either

attached to the endoplasmic reticulum or free in the cytoplasm.

RINGWORM: Ringworm is a fungal infection of the skin that can

cause a red, circular rash with raised edges. Despite its name, it is
not caused by a worm but by various dermatophyte fungi.
RNA (RIBONUCLEIC ACID): RNA is a molecule involved in
various cellular processes, including protein synthesis. It is similar
to DNA but typically exists as a single-stranded molecule. RNA
carries genetic information and is involved in gene expression,
transcription, and translation.

ROBERT BROWN: Discovered the Centre of the cell, and named

it the ‘nucleus’ in 1831.
ROBERT HOOKE: He was the first scientist who observed cells
with the help of a simple microscope. He observed the section of
cork through a microscope and called the tiny chambers seen in the
section 'cell.'
ROD CELLS: Rod cells are one of the two main types of
photoreceptor cells in the retina of the eye. They are responsible for
low-light or night vision and help us see in dimly lit environments.
RUDOLF VIRCHOW: Observed dividing cells and inferred those
new cells arise only from existing cells in 1858.

Ss

SCHWANN CELL: Schwann cells are a type of glial cell in the

peripheral nervous system (PNS). They wrap around and insulate
axons with a myelin sheath, facilitating faster nerve impulse
transmission and providing support and protection to peripheral
nerves.

SCLERA :The sclera is the tough, white, outermost layer of the

eyeball that provides structural support and protection for the eye.
SCLERENCHYMA: Sclerenchyma is a type of plant tissue that
provides support and strength. It is made up of cells that have thick,
lignified cell walls. Lignin is a complex organic compound that
makes the cell walls rigid and hard. There are two types of
sclerenchyma: fibres and sclereids.

SEMICIRCULAR CANALS: The semicircular canals are three

fluid-filled structures in the inner ear that are responsible for
detecting changes in head position and rotational movement. They
play a vital role in maintaining balance and equilibrium.
SENSORY IMPULSE: A sensory impulse is an electrical signal
generated by sensory receptors in response to a stimulus (such as
touch, light, or temperature) and transmitted to the central nervous
system (brain or spinal cord) for processing and interpretation.
SERICULTURE: Rearing silkworms for the production of natural
silk is called sericulture. Silk is formed from the special glands of
the larvae of the silk moth. Mulberry silkworm, Tussar silkworm,
Muga silkworm etc., are the major varieties.
SEX CHROMOSOME: Sex chromosomes are the chromosomes
that determine the biological sex of an individual. In humans, there
are two sex chromosomes: X and Y. Females have two X
chromosomes, while males have one X chromosome and one Y
chromosome.
SEX HORMONES: Sex hormones are hormones, such as estrogen
and testosterone, that regulate sexual development, reproductive
functions, and secondary sexual characteristics in males and
females.
SICKLE CELL ANEMIA: Sickle cell anemia is a genetic blood
disorder characterized by the presence of abnormally shaped red
blood cells (sickle cells). These cells can cause blockages in blood
vessels, leading to pain, anemia, and other health problems.

SKELETAL MUSCLE: It is seen attached to bones, cylindrical

cells, dark and light striations are seen. It makes voluntary
movements possible.
SPHYGMOMANOMETER: A sphygmomanometer is a device
used to measure blood pressure. It consists of an inflatable cuff, a
pressure meter, and a stethoscope.

SPINAL CORD: The spinal cord is a long, tubular structure that

runs within the vertebral column (spine). It serves as a vital part of
the central nervous system (CNS) and is responsible for transmitting
sensory and motor signals between the brain and the rest of the body.
SPINAL NERVES: Spinal nerves are a set of nerves that emerge
from the spinal cord at various levels along the vertebral column.
They play a crucial role in carrying sensory and motor information
between the spinal cord and specific regions of the body.
SPLEEN: The spleen is a fist-sized organ located in the upper left
abdomen, behind the stomach and under the ribs. It is part of the
lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system.
STAGE AND CLIPS: Stage is where the specimen to be viewed is
placed, clips are used when there is no mechanical stage.

STAMEN: A stamen is the male reproductive organ of a flower. It

consists of a filament and an anther. The filament is a stalk that
supports the anther. The anther is the part of the stamen that
produces pollen.
STAPES: The stapes, also known as the stirrup bone, is one of the
three tiny bones (ossicles) located in the middle ear. It plays a crucial
role in transmitting sound vibrations from the middle ear to the inner
ear.
STEM CELLS: Stem cells are specialized cells that can transform
into any kind of cells. Stem cells undergo constant differentiation
and get transformed into other kinds of cells. When the cells in the
tissues get destroyed, new cells develop from the stem cells. Stem
cells are found in the bone marrow, skin, digestive tract etc.
STH (SOMATOTROPIC HORMONE): STH, also known as the
anterior pituitary gland. It plays a key role in promoting growth,
regulating metabolism, and influencing various physiological
processes.
SWELLING: Swelling refers to the enlargement or puffiness of a
body part due to an accumulation of fluid, inflammation, or other
underlying causes. It is a common response to injury or infection.
SYMPATHETIC SYSTEM: The sympathetic nervous system is
one of the two divisions of the autonomic nervous system (ANS). It
is responsible for the "fight or flight" response, mobilizing the body's
resources to deal with stress or emergencies by increasing heart rate,
dilating airways, and redirecting blood flow.
SYNAPSE: A synapse is a specialized junction between two nerve
cells or between a nerve cell and a target cell (such as a muscle cell
or another neuron). It is where information is transmitted from one
cell to another through the release of neurotransmitters.
SYNAPTIC KNOB:A synaptic knob, also known as a presynaptic
terminal or axon terminal, is the swollen end of an axon that forms
a synapse with another neuron or a target cell. It contains synaptic
vesicles filled with neurotransmitters, which are released to transmit
signals across the synapse.
SYSTOLE: Systole is one of the two phases of the cardiac cycle. It
is the phase during which the heart contracts and pumps blood out
of the heart chambers. The other phase is diastole, which is the phase
during which the heart relaxes and fills with blood.

Tt

TADPOLE: A tadpole is the larval stage of an amphibian, such as

a frog or toad. Tadpoles are aquatic and have gills for respiration.
They typically have a long, streamlined body with a large head and
a wide tail.
TASTE BUDS: Taste buds are sensory organs located on the tongue
and other parts of the oral cavity that enable the perception of
different tastes—sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and umami.

TAXONOMY: Taxonomy is the science of classifying organisms.

It is a hierarchical system that groups organisms based on their
shared characteristics.
TEMPERATURE RECEPTOR: Temperature receptors are
sensory receptors that detect changes in temperature and help
maintain thermoregulation in the body.
TEODOR SCHWANN: Found out that the body of an animal is
made up of cells in 1839.

TERTIARY CONSUMER: Organisms that feed on secondary

consumers are called tertiary consumers.
TESTOSTERONE: Testosterone is a male sex hormone that helps
regulate the development and maintenance of male sex organs and
secondary sex characteristics, such as facial hair, muscle mass, and
bone density.
TESTOSTERONE: Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone,
but it is also present in females at lower levels, and it plays a crucial
role in sexual development and other physiological processes.
The intestine, also called the bowel, is a long, tube-like organ in the
digestive system where most of the digestion and absorption of
nutrients from food occurs. It consists of the small intestine and the
large intestine.
THEO PHRASTUS: The Father of Botany. He classified plants
into annuals, biennials and perennials.
THALAMUS: The thalamus is a relay center in the brain that
processes and relays sensory information to various parts of the
cerebral cortex
THORACIC CAVITY: It is a space inside your thorax (chest)
that contains your heart, lungs and other organs and tissues.
THREATENED SPECIES: A threatened species is a species that
is at risk of extinction. It is a species that is likely to become
endangered in the near future.
THROMBIN: Thrombin is an enzyme involved in the blood
clotting process, converting fibrinogen into fibrin to form blood
clots.
THYROID TEST: A thyroid test is a medical test used to assess
thyroid function, which may include measuring levels of thyroid
hormones like T3 and T4, as well as thyroid-stimulating hormone
(TSH).
TISSUES: Tissues are groups of similar cells that have a common
origin and perform specific functions. There are different kinds of
tissues in multicellular organisms like plants and animals. The co-
ordinated action of these tissues helps in performing different
physiological functions effectively.
T-LYMPHOCYTES: T-lymphocytes, or T cells, are a type of
white blood cell involved in immune responses, including cell-
mediated immunity and the destruction of infected or abnormal
cells.

TOUCH RECEPTOR: Touch receptors are sensory nerve endings

in the skin and other tissues that detect pressure, temperature, and
various tactile sensations.
TSH (THYROID-STIMULATING HORMONE): TSH is a
hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the thyroid
gland to release thyroid hormones, regulating metabolism.
TUBE NUCLEUS: Pollen grain contains two nuclei such as
generative nucleus and tube nucleus. The generative nucleus divides
in the pollen tube to form two male gametes and the tube nucleus
disintegrates.
TYMPANUM: The tympanum, also known as the eardrum, is a thin
membrane in the middle ear that vibrates in response to sound
waves, transmitting auditory signals.
 Uu

ULTRAFILTRATION: Ultrafiltration is a process that occurs in

the kidneys to remove waste products and excess fluid from the
blood. It is the first step in the filtration process of the kidneys.
UMBILICAL CORD: An umbilical cord is a structure that
connects a foetus to the placenta inside the mother's womb. It is a
lifeline for the foetus, providing oxygen and nutrients from the
mother's blood
UNICELLULAR: Unicellular organisms are organisms that
consist of a single cell. This means that they do not have any organs
or tissues, and all of their functions are carried out by the cell itself.

UNIVERSAL SOLVENT: Water is often referred to as the

"universal solvent" because it dissolves more substances than any
other liquid.
URACIL: Uracil is one of the four nitrogenous bases found in RNA
(ribonucleic acid). It pairs with adenine in RNA during the process
of genetic transcription.
UREA: Urea is a colourless, odour less solid that is the main
nitrogenous waste product of mammals .Urea is produced in the liver
from ammonia and carbon dioxide. Ammonia is a waste product of
protein metabolism.
URETER: The ureter is a muscular tube that carries urine from the
kidney to the bladder.

UREY-MILLER EXPERIMENT: The Urey-Miller experiment

was a landmark scientific experiment conducted in 1953 by Stanley
Miller and Harold Urey. It aimed to simulate the conditions of early
Earth and demonstrated that amino acids, the building blocks of
proteins, could be produced from simple chemicals under those
conditions, providing support for the idea of prebiotic chemistry and
the origins of life.
URINATION: Urination, also known as micturition, is the process
of expelling urine from the bladder through the urethra to the outside
of the body. It is a vital part of the excretory system and helps
eliminate waste products from the body
URINOGENITAL TRACT: The urinary system and the genital
system are two separate systems in the body, but they are often
referred to together as the urogenital tract.
UTERUS : Foetus completes its growth in uterus. It is a muscular
organ in the female pelvis that holds a foetus during pregnancy and
helps to push it out during childbirth.
UTRICLE: The utricle is one of the three organs of the inner ear. It
is located in the vestibule, which is the central part of the inner ear.
UVULA: Closes the nasal cavity that opens to the pharynx.

Vv

VACCINES: A vaccine is a biological preparation that provides

active acquired immunity to a particular disease.
VACUOLE: Covered by a characteristic membrane called
tonoplast. Stores water, salts, excretory materials etc.

VAGINA: : Part through which uterus opens out. Sperms are

deposited here.
VAS DEFERENS: The duct that carries sperms from the testes to
the ureter.
VASCULAR PERMEABILITY: Vascular permeability refers to
the ability of blood vessels to allow substances to pass through their
walls. It plays a role in the exchange of nutrients and waste products
between blood and tissues.
VASCULAR TISSUE: The water and minerals absorbed by roots
need to be transported to leaves and the food prepared in leaves need
to be transported to different parts. The specialized tissues formed
from peculiar cells to do this are called vascular tissues. They are
called complex tissues because they are formed from different kinds
of cells. The two types of complex tissues found in plants are xylem
and phloem.

VASOPRESSIN (ANTIDIURETIC HORMONE, ADH):

Vasopressin, also known as ADH, is a hormone produced by the
pituitary gland that regulates water balance in the body by reducing
the excretion of water by the kidneys.
VECTORS: In biology, vectors are organisms or agents that
transmit pathogens, such as viruses or parasites, from one host to
another. Examples include mosquitoes transmitting malaria and
ticks transmitting Lyme disease.
VEGETATIVE CELL: In biology, a vegetative cell is a cell that is
not involved in reproduction but serves other functions within an
organism.
VEGETATIVE REPRODUCTION: Vegetative reproduction is a
type of asexual reproduction in plants where new individuals are
generated from a parent plant's vegetative parts (e.g., stems, leaves,
or roots), rather than from seeds.

VEGETATIVE STAGE: The vegetative stage of plant growth is a

period during which a plant focuses on growing stems, leaves, and
roots rather than producing flowers or seeds.
VEIN: A vein is a blood vessel that carries blood back to the heart.
Veins are typically blue because the blood they carry is low in
oxygen.
VENACAVA: Vena cava is a large vein that carries deoxygenated
blood from the body back to the heart. There are two venae cava: the
superior vena cava and the inferior vena cava.
VENATION: Venation refers to the pattern of veins in the leaves
of plants, which varies among different species.
VENTRAL ROOT: The ventral root is the part of a spinal nerve
that contains motor neurons, which carry signals from the spinal
cord to muscles and glands.
VERTEBRATE: Vertebrates are referred to the animals that
possess a vertebral column or notochord at any point in their lives.
VERTEBRAL COLUMN: The vertebral column, also known as
the spine or backbone, is a bony structure consisting of individual
vertebrae that protect the spinal cord and provide support to the
body.

VESTIBULE: The vestibule is a structure in the inner ear that

plays a role in balance and spatial orientation. It contains receptors
that detect head position and linear acceleration.
VESTIGE: A vestige is a remnant or trace of a structure or feature
that has become functionally obsolete or reduced in size during
evolution.
VIABILITY: Viability refers to the ability of an organism or cell to
survive, grow, or function effectively under specific conditions. It is
often used in discussions of reproductive success and the likelihood
of survival.
VILLI: Villi are small finger like projections seen in the walls of
the intestine. These increase the surface area of absorption of
nutrients to a great extent within the small intestine. Villi are covered
with a single layer of cells. They also contain blood capillaries and
lacteals, the lymph capillaries.

VIRAL DISEASES: Viral diseases are illnesses caused by viral

infections. Examples include the common cold, influenza,
HIV/AIDS, and COVID-19.
VIRULENT: Virulent describes the severity or aggressiveness of a
pathogen, indicating its ability to cause disease.
VIRUS: A virus is a microscopic infectious agent that can infect
living cells and replicate within them. Viruses can cause various
diseases in humans, animals, and plants.
VISCERA: Viscera are the internal organs found in the body's
cavities, such as the heart, liver, lungs, and intestines.
VITAL CAPACITY: Vital capacity is the volume of air that can be
breathed out by forceful expiration after maximum or forceful
inspiration. Vital capacity can be taken as an indicator of normal and
healthy respiratory activity and the strength of muscles in the
thoracic cavity. This is about 4.5 liters in male and about 3 liters in
female.
VITREOUS HUMOR: The vitreous humor is a clear, gel-like
substance that fills the space between the lens and retina in the eye.
It helps maintain the eye's shape and optical properties.

VOLUNTARY MUSCLE: Voluntary muscles, also known as

skeletal muscles, are muscles that are under conscious control. They
enable movement of the skeleton and are responsible for actions like
walking and lifting.
VULNERABLE SPECIES: Vulnerable species are organisms that
face a high risk of extinction in the wild if their populations continue
to decline. They are classified as such by conservation organizations
based on various factors.

Ww

WATER POTENTIAL: Water potential is the potential energy of

water per unit volume.
WAX COVERING: A wax covering refers to a protective layer or
coating made of waxy substances. In biology, it can refer to various
wax coatings found on the surface of plants, insects, or other
organisms, often serving as a barrier to water loss or protection
WHITE MATTER: White matter is a region in the central nervous
system (CNS) that consists mainly of myelinated nerve fibers. It
plays a role in transmitting signals between different areas of the
brain and spinal cord.

WILD LIFE SANCTUARY: These are forest areas declared as

protected areas to prevent the extinction of wild lives by protecting
the ecosystem. Peppara, Periyar, Wayanad etc., are examples of
wild life sanctuaries in Kerala.
WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION (WHO): The World
Health Organization is a specialized agency of the United Nations
responsible for international public health. It works to improve
global health, coordinate responses to health emergencies, and set
international health standards.
WORMS: Worms are elongated, often legless, invertebrate animals
belonging to various phyla. They can be found in diverse
environments, and examples include earthworms, roundworms, and
flatworms.
WOUNDS: Wounds are injuries to the skin or underlying tissues
that result from cuts, abrasions, punctures, or other forms of trauma.
Proper wound care is essential for healing and preventing infection.
WWF: (World Wide Fund for Nature) Biodiversity conservation,
prevention of exploitation and pollution of natural resources are the
objectives of WWF. Its headquarters is also in Switzerland.

Xx

XANTHOPHYLL: Xanthophylls are found in the chloroplasts of

plant cells, where they help to absorb light energy and convert it into
chemical energy. They also play a role in photosynthesis, the process
by which plants use sunlight to produce food.
X-CHROMOSOME: The X chromosome is one of the two sex
chromosomes in humans. It is the larger of the two sex
chromosomes.
XEROPHTHALMIA: Xerophthalmia is a medical condition
characterized by dryness of the eyes due to a deficiency of vitamin
A. It can result in eye discomfort, night blindness, and other visual
problems.
X-RAY: X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation with high
energy and short wavelengths. They are commonly used in medical
imaging to visualize the internal structures of the body, such as
bones and soft tissues

XXY SYNDROME: XXY syndrome, also known as Klinefelter

syndrome, is a genetic condition in males where they have an extra
X chromosome (XXY) instead of the typical XY configuration. It
can lead to developmental and reproductive challenges.
XYLEM FIBER: Xylem fibers are long, slender cells found in the
xylem of plants. They provide structural support and help reinforce
the plant's vascular tissues.
XYLEM PARENCHYMA: Xylem parenchyma is a type of plant
tissue found in the xylem. It consists of living cells that function in
various roles, including storage of starch and other substances.
XYLEM: Tubes formed from elongated cells. Transports water and
minerals absorbed by the roots to the leaves. It has thick cell walls
and therefore provide support and strength to the plant. XYLEM
VESSEL: Xylem vessels are a type of plant tissue that forms part of
the plant's vascular system. They are tubular structures made up of
dead cells and are responsible for transporting water and minerals
from the roots to the rest of the plant.
 Yy

Y- CHROMOSOME: Only found in males. The Y chromosome is

one of the two sex chromosomes in humans. It is the smaller of the
two chromosomes.
YAC (YEAST ARTIFICIAL CHROMOSOME): A yeast
artificial chromosome is an artificial DNA construct used in genetic
research to clone and manipulate large pieces of DNA. YACs are
often used to study and map genes.
YEAST: Yeast is a type of single-celled fungus belonging to the
Saccharomyces cerevisiae species. It is commonly used in baking
and brewing due to its ability to ferment sugars and produce carbon
dioxide and alcohol.

YEILD: The term "yield" in biology refers to the amount of a

substance produced by a plant or animal. In agriculture, it refers to
the amount of a crop produced per unit of land.
YELLOW FEVER VIRUS: The yellow fever virus is a mosquito-
borne virus that can cause yellow fever, a viral hemorrhagic fever
characterized by symptoms such as high fever, jaundice, and
bleeding. Vaccination is an effective preventive measure against
yellow fever.
YELLOW SPOT: The yellow spot, also known as the macula lutea,
is a small, central area in the retina of the eye. It contains a high
concentration of cone cells and is responsible for central, detailed
vision.

YOLK SAC: The yolk sac is a membranous sac that develops in the
early embryo. It is attached to the embryo by the connecting stalk.
The yolk sac provides the embryo with nutrients and oxygen before
the placenta is formed. It also produces blood cells and germ cells.

Zz

ZOO PLANKTON: Zooplankton are tiny animals that live in the

water column of lakes, oceans, and other bodies of water. They are
heterotrophs, which means they cannot produce their own food and
must eat other organisms to survive.
ZOOLOGY: Zoology is the scientific study of animals. It is a
branch of biology that deals with the structure, behavior, and
evolution of animals.
ZOOSPERMIA: Zoospermia is a medical condition characterized
by an abnormally high number of sperm in the semen. It can be
associated with fertility issues in men.
ZOOSPORE: A zoospore is a motile, asexual spore produced by
certain fungi, algae, and protozoa. Zoospores typically have a
flagellum or cilia that allow them to swim through water, aiding in
dispersal and reproduction.

ZYGOTE: A zygote is a cell that is formed when two gametes

(ovum and sperm) fuse together. It is also known as the fertilized
egg or fertilized ovum. The zygote begins as a single cell but divides
rapidly in the days following fertilization.

ZYGOTENE: Zygotene, is the second stage of prophase of meiosis.

It is the stage in which homologous chromosomes pair up and form
synapsis.
Dear reader,
Thank you for journeying through the pages of this biology
dictionary. The world of biology is a fascinating and ever evolving
field. I encourage you to keep exploring, asking questions, and
seeking knowledge.
May your curiosity continue to lead you on a path of discovery in
the amazing world of biology.
With best wishes,
RONIYA VARGHESE.