cline

views updated May 23 2018

cline / klīn/ • n. a continuum with an infinite number of gradations from one extreme to the other. ∎ Biol. a gradation in one or more characteristics within a species or other taxon, esp. between different populations.See also ecocline.DERIVATIVES: clin·al / ˈklīnl/ adj.

The Oxford Pocket Dictionary of Current English

cline

views updated May 08 2018

cline Gradual change in gene frequencies or character states within a species, across its geographic distribution.

A Dictionary of Earth Sciences AILSA ALLABY and MICHAEL ALLABY

cline

views updated May 11 2018

cline A gradual change in gene frequencies or character states within a species across its geographic distribution. Compare area-effect speciation.

A Dictionary of Ecology MICHAEL ALLABY

cline

views updated May 17 2018

cline A gradual change in gene frequencies or character states within a species across its geographic distribution.

A Dictionary of Zoology MICHAEL ALLABY

cline

views updated May 29 2018

cline A gradual variation in the characteristics of a species or population over its geographical range. It occurs in response to varying environmental factors, such as soil type or climate.

A Dictionary of Biology