Monogyny
- Pronunciation
- /muh-NOG-uh-nee/
- Category
- Social Behavior
- Singular
- Monogyny
- Plural
- Monogynies
Definition
The existence of only a single functional queen in a nest.
Etymology
From Greek 'monos', meaning 'single', and 'gyne', meaning 'woman' or 'female'.
Example
Honeybee colonies exhibit monogyny, with only one queen responsible for laying eggs.
Related Terms
Usage Notes
Monogyny is contrasted with polygyny where multiple queens may be present in a nest.