Photoperiod
- Pronunciation
- /foh-TOH-peer-ee-uhd/
- Category
- Behavior
- Singular
- Photoperiod
- Plural
- Photoperiods
Definition
The length of daylight and darkness in a day, influencing biological rhythms and developmental processes in organisms.
Etymology
From Greek 'phos', meaning 'light', and 'periodos', meaning 'period'.
Example
The photoperiod of spring influences the timing of insect emergence and development.
Related Terms
- Circadian rhythm
- Seasonal
Usage Notes
Photoperiods can vary depending on geographical location and time of year.