chimaera

views updated May 17 2018

chimaera An organism composed of tissues that are genetically different. Chimaeras can develop if a mutation occurs in a cell of a developing embryo. All the cells arising from it have the mutation and therefore produce tissue that is genetically different from adjacent tissue, e.g. brown patches in otherwise blue eyes in humans. Graft hybrids are examples of plant chimaeras.

chimaera

views updated May 14 2018

chimaera (ratfish or ghost shark) One of about 28 species of cartilaginous, deep-sea fish with a long, poisonous, dorsal spine and a slender tail. An oil, derived from its liver, is used as a lubricant. Length: 60cm–2m (23–80in). Families Chimaeridae, Collorhinchidae and Rhinochimaeridae. The term also refers to an animal formed from several different embryos.

chimaera

views updated May 14 2018

chimaera See CHIMERA.

chimaera

views updated May 17 2018

chimaera See CHIMERA.